Medicare 101: The Basics
Understand Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, what each part generally covers, and when you may be able to enroll.
Medicare has several parts:
- Part A: helps with inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services.
- Part B: helps with doctor visits, outpatient care, medical equipment, and preventive services.
- Part C / Medicare Advantage: an alternative way to receive Part A and Part B benefits through a private company approved by Medicare.
- Part D: helps with prescription drugs.
Note: Medicare does not cover everything. Costs, benefits, and rules may vary based on coverage type and individual situation.
If you are not sure what you currently have, a licensed advisor can help review your situation.
This guide is for general education only. Plan availability, benefits, costs, networks, medications, and eligibility may vary by county, plan, and individual situation. For a specific review, a licensed advisor must verify your information.