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Part C vs Part D: what is the difference?
Part C, Medicare Advantage, is a private plan that provides all your Part A and Part B benefits, and most include drug coverage. Part D is prescription drug coverage, sold as a stand-alone plan or inside a Medicare Advantage plan.
Facts only, from 4 cited sources, checked October 23, 2026. This page does not recommend either option.
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Part C vs Part D side by side
| Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) | Medicare Part D (drug coverage) | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it covers | All Part A and Part B benefits through a private plan | Prescription drugs | HealthCare.gov glossary: Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
| How you get it | Join a Medicare Advantage plan | A stand-alone drug plan, or a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage | HealthCare.gov glossary: Medicare Part D |
| Out-of-pocket limit, 2026 | Varies by plan | $2,100 for covered drugs ($2,400 in 2027) | Medicare.gov: Costs for Medicare drug coverage |
| Deductible, 2026 | Varies by plan | Varies; no more than $615 ($700 in 2027) | Medicare.gov: Costs for Medicare drug coverage |
| Drug coverage included | Most plans include Part D | Is the drug coverage | Medicare.gov: Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage |
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Questions
What is the difference between Part C and Part D?
Part C, Medicare Advantage, is a private plan that provides all your Part A and Part B benefits, and most include drug coverage. Part D is prescription drug coverage, sold as a stand-alone plan or inside a Medicare Advantage plan.
Do I need Part D if I have Part C?
Medicare.gov says most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D, so you don't need a separate drug plan. Check whether a specific plan includes drug coverage.