Medicare

---

Medicare Part A, also known as Hospital Insurance, helps cover the cost of inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice services, and certain home health care. Part A is designed to give you peace of mind when you need hospital or facility care, helping protect you from large medical bills. Here’s a closer look at what Part A can cover: 

• Hospital Care
• Skilled Nursing Facility Care
• Hospice Care
• Home Health Services

While Medicare Part A covers a wide range of hospital and inpatient services, beneficiaries may still be responsible for certain costs, including deductibles and coinsurance. For most people, Part A enrollment happens automatically at age 65 if they meet eligibility criteria, such as having paid Medicare taxes through their work history. 

 Medicare Part B, also called Medical Insurance, helps cover a variety of outpatient services and doctor visits. It’s designed to make it easier to get medically necessary care and preventive services that keep you healthy—often outside of a hospital setting. Here’s a closer look at what Part B can cover: 

• Doctor’s Services
• Outpatient Care:
• Preventive Services:
• Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
• Medical Tests and Lab Services
• Emergency Ambulance Services
• Mental Health Services
• Limited Prescription Drugs
• Outpatient Rehabilitation Services
• Part B also covers some preventive screenings and counseling services for alcohol misuse and tobacco cessation.

 Medicare Part B helps cover important medical services like doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive screenings. While it does come with a monthly premium, an annual deductible, and some coinsurance or copayments, the exact costs can vary based on your income and circumstances 

Medicare Part C, also known as “Medicare Advantage,” offers an alternative way for Medicare beneficiaries to receive their Original Medicare benefits through private insurance companies approved by Medicare and State Insurance Department. Medicare Advantage plans provide all the benefits of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and will likely include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans aren’t one-size-fits-all—each plan can differ in coverage, costs, provider networks, and extra benefits. If you’re thinking about a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s a good idea to explore the options available in your area and find one that fits your healthcare needs and budget. Be sure to understand how the plan works, including its network of doctors and any requirements for seeing specialists. Many people find Medicare Advantage appealing because it combines hospital and medical coverage while often offering additional benefits beyond Original Medicare. 

Medicare Part D, also called Prescription Drug Coverage, helps cover the cost of the medications you need to stay healthy. Part D plans are designed to give you access to a wide variety of prescription drugs, making it easier to manage your health and maintain your well-being. Whether you take routine medications or need coverage for unexpected prescriptions, Part D can help make them more affordable.