What does Part C of Medicare, also known as Medicare Advantage, allow beneficiaries to do?

Part C of Medicare, commonly referred to as Medicare Advantage, is designed to provide beneficiaries with a different way to receive their Medicare benefits. This option allows individuals to receive all of their healthcare services through private insurance plans that contract with Medicare. These plans often include a variety of medical services beyond just hospital or specialist care, such as preventive services, outpatient care, and sometimes additional benefits like vision or dental coverage.

Beneficiaries choosing Medicare Advantage are not limited to accessing only specialized care or merely hospital services; rather, they can utilize the comprehensive healthcare services that the plan offers. Additionally, while purchasing additional insurance outside of Medicare is permitted, it is not a defining feature of Medicare Advantage itself. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the holistic approach of Part C, making it clear that beneficiaries can manage their healthcare in a more integrated manner through these plans.