Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and bundles Part A and Part B into one plan, often adding extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and sometimes prescription drug coverage. Instead of using Original Medicare directly, you get your care through the plan’s network and rules (such as HMOs or PPOs), which can mean different copays and premiums but often more predictable out‑of‑pocket costs and added benefits for people 55+ planning ahead.