Which name was originally used for Medicare Part C?

The name originally used for Medicare Part C was Medicare + Choice. This term was introduced as part of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, aiming to provide beneficiaries with more options for their healthcare coverage beyond the traditional Medicare program. Medicare + Choice allowed participants to receive their Medicare benefits through a variety of private health plans, giving them a broader array of choices to meet their healthcare needs.

Over time, the name changed to Medicare Advantage, but the foundational purpose remained the same: to offer beneficiaries the flexibility to choose their healthcare plans with the added benefits that private plans could provide. Understanding this terminology is crucial for navigating and comprehending the evolution of Medicare policy and the options available to beneficiaries.