Understanding Medicare
Medicare Basics
Medicare is a health insurance program run by the government, designed to help with medical costs for:
People aged 65 and older
Those under 65 with certain disabilities
Individuals of any age with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), such as permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant
The Different Parts of Medicare
Medicare Part A—Hospital Insurance
Part A helps cover the cost of care when you’re admitted to a hospital. It also includes coverage for stays in skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health services.
Medicare Part B—Medical Insurance
Part B covers things like outpatient care, doctor visits, durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs or walkers), and some home health services. It also includes preventive care, helping you stay on top of your health and catch issues early.
Medicare Part D—Prescription Drug Coverage
Part D helps with the cost of prescription medications. It can lower what you pay for your prescriptions now and protect you from rising drug costs in the future. These plans are offered through private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare.
Medicare Part C—Medicare Advantage
Also known as Medicare Advantage, Part C is offered by private insurance companies that work with Medicare. These plans include everything in Parts A and B, and most also include prescription drug coverage (Part D). Many even offer extra benefits like dental, vision, or hearing coverage for an added cost.
Your Medicare Coverage Options
When it comes to choosing your Medicare coverage, you have two main paths:
Original Medicare (Parts A and B), which you can pair with a separate drug plan (Part D) and/or a Medicare Supplement plan. OR
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C), which roll many of your benefits into one convenient plan through a private insurer.
Your Medicare Coverage Options
When it comes to choosing your Medicare coverage, you have two main paths:
Original Medicare (Parts A and B), which you can pair with a separate drug plan (Part D) and a Medicare Supplement plan.
ORMedicare Advantage Plans (Part C), which roll many of your benefits into one convenient plan through a private insurer.
