Seniors are required to sign up for Medicare Parts A & B prior to enrolling in Medicare Part C. Medicare Part C is also known as Medicare Advantage and is an optional method of acquiring this type of health care. While Medicare is a federally facilitated health care plan, Part C is typically sold through private market health insurance providers. 

These private health insurance providers are required to follow all laws and regulations as set forth by the U.S. federal government as a means of maintaining consistent quality and service standards across all Medicare platforms.

Medicare eligibility age requirements are not applicable to 65+ seniors enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans.

Part C combines many aspects of Parts A & B along with additional features and coverage options. Certain prescription medications are covered under Medicare Part C in limited qualified situations.

The majority of prescriptions and medicine-related expenses are covered in Medicare Part D, however.

Some of the major benefits pursuant to enrolling in Medicare Part C include the coverage of hearing, vision, physical fitness and dental program expenses. Parts A & B do not cover these types of expenses. 

Part C might also cover transportation to medical appointments, over the counter medicines and general health & wellness treatments. Medicare Part C is also partially customizable to suit the needs of qualified senior enrollees. Seniors are able to sign up for Medicare Advantage plans during general enrollment periods each year. The costs of purchasing a Part C plan vary widely with each provider, your chosen coverage options and the state in which you live.

Next, learn about Medicare Part D.