Medicare Basics: Understanding the Different Parts of Medicare
Medicare currently has four “parts.” Each part provides different types of health care services. Medicare Part A and Part B are often referred to as “original Medicare.”
Quick Facts: Medicare Part A — Hospital Insurance
- Covers hospital, skilled nursing care, hospice care and home health care
- You’re eligible if you or your spouse paid into Social Security for 10 years and you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- No premium for most people
- Deductibles and copayments apply
- Enrollment is usually automatic if you’re already collecting Social Security
- If you plan to collect Social Security later than age 65, contact Social Security three months prior to your 65th birthday
Get more detailed information about Medicare Part A
Quick Facts: Medicare Part B — Medical Insurance
- Covers doctor services, outpatient care, durable medical equipment (DME) and many preventive services
- You’re eligible if you or your spouse paid into Social Security for 10 years and you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- There are monthly premiums
- Enrollment is optional
Get more detailed information about Medicare Part B
Quick Facts: Medicare Part C — Medicare Advantage Plans
- Combines coverage for services covered in Medicare Parts A and B, plus some additional services through a private health plan
- You’re eligible if enrolled in both Part A and Part B
- Monthly premiums apply and you must continue to pay your Part B premium
- Deductibles and coinsurance may apply and may be different than those under the original Medicare Parts A and B
- Enrollment is optional
- There are four enrollment periods
- Coverage may include prescription drug coverage
Get more detailed information about Medicare Part C
Quick Facts: Medicare Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage
- You’re eligible if you are entitled to Part A and/or enrolled in Part B
- Monthly premiums apply and you must continue to pay your Part B premium
- Enrollment is optional, but a late enrollment penalty may apply in certain circumstances
- Copayments, deductibles and coinsurance may apply
- Covers outpatient prescription medications
- There are three enrollment periods
Get more detailed information about Medicare Part D
What is Medicare Supplement Insurance?
Medicare Supplement insurance is a private health insurance policy designed to help pay copayments and coinsurance that Medicare requires you to pay. Often referred to as “Medigap insurance,” it is different from a Medicare Advantage plan because you remain in original Medicare and are able to use any doctor or medical provider that accepts Medicare.
Medigap policies are sold by private insurers. The policies are standardized and are identified by letters (plans A through L). The benefits of each insurer’s Medigap plans must be the same your decision-making process is easier. Remember, to compare prices and the reputation of the insurers
Quick Facts – Medicare Supplement Insurance
- Helps cover expenses that Medicare Parts A and B leaves you to pay
- You’re eligible if enrolled in both Part A and Part B
- Monthly premiums apply, and you must continue to pay your Part B premium
- In most cases offers freedom to choose doctors, hospitals and other health professionals who accept Medicare
- Deductibles and coinsurances may apply
- Enrollment is optional
Get more detailed information about Medicare Supplement Insurance
