Parts of Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for people who are 65 or older, people with certain disabilities, and people diagnosed with End-stage renal disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. It is divided into four parts: Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. Each part provides different coverage and has its own set of rules and regulations.
Medicare Part A
Also known as “hospital insurance,” Part A covers inpatient care in hospitals, hospice care, and skilled nursing facility care. It also covers some home health care services. Part A is generally premium-free for most people who have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Medicare Part B
Also known as “medical insurance,” Part B covers doctor services, preventive services, and other outpatient care. It also covers some medical equipment and lab tests. Part B has a monthly premium, which is based on your income.
Medicare Part C
Also known as “Medicare Advantage,” Part C is an alternative to Original Medicare. It is offered by private insurance companies and provides the same coverage as Part A and Part B, but may also offer additional benefits such as vision, hearing, and dental coverage. Part C plans are required to provide at least the same level of coverage as Original Medicare, but they may also have different cost-sharing and provider networks.
Medicare Part D
Also known as “prescription drug coverage,” Part D covers prescribed medications. It is offered by private insurance companies and can be purchased as a stand-alone policy or as a part of Medicare Advantage bundle. The cost and coverage of Part D plans vary depending on the plan you choose.
It’s important to understand the different parts of Medicare and how they work together to provide coverage for your healthcare needs. The right combination of Parts A, B, C, and D will depend on your individual needs and budget.
If you’re new to Medicare, our team can help you navigate the system and find the right combination of coverage that fits your needs. We encourage you to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance.