Which Medicare part involves private fee-for-service plans?

Part C of Medicare is known as Medicare Advantage, which includes private fee-for-service plans along with other managed care options. Under Part C, beneficiaries can receive their Medicare benefits through private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare. These plans can offer additional benefits beyond Original Medicare, such as vision or dental coverage, and may also have different rules for how care is accessed.

The private fee-for-service plans specifically allow beneficiaries more flexibility in choosing their healthcare providers, although services must still be covered under Medicare. Because of the involvement of private companies in administrating these benefits, Part C is designed to enhance the range and quality of services available to beneficiaries while maintaining the core Medicare principles.

Regarding other parts of Medicare, Part A primarily covers hospital insurance, Part B covers outpatient care and preventive services, and Part D provides prescription drug coverage. Each of these has distinct functions and does not include the structure of private fee-for-service plans as found in Part C.