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The Basics

What is Medicare?

Medicare can feel like alphabet soup. Let's break it down in plain English — no jargon.

Part A — Hospital Insurance

Part A generally helps cover inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a monthly premium for Part A because they (or a spouse) paid Medicare taxes while working.

Part B — Medical Insurance

Part B generally helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services like screenings and vaccines, and durable medical equipment. Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B.

Part C — Medicare Advantage

Part C, better known as Medicare Advantage, is a way to get your Part A and Part B benefits (and often Part D) through a private insurance company approved by Medicare. These plans often bundle in extra benefits, but typically use a provider network.

Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage

Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications. It's offered through private insurance companies, either as its own stand-alone plan alongside Original Medicare, or bundled into a Medicare Advantage plan.

Heads up: Premiums, deductibles, and other dollar figures change every year. Rather than guess, always check Medicare.govor ask your advisor for current figures.

Ready to learn when to sign up?

Next, explore the enrollment periods that determine when you can join Medicare.

Continue to Enrollment