Original Medicare

Part A: Hospital Insurance

Medicare Part A benefits help cover the cost of hospital or skilled nursing facility stays.  

In brief, the program covers people age 65 or older, people with certain medical conditions, or those receiving Social Security disability for at least two years.

Medicare Advantage plans and Medigap supplement plans require members to have Part A.

Part B: Medical Insurance

In essence, Medicare Part B benefits cover two types of medical services — preventive services, which detect and prevent potentially severe diseases from advancing, and medically necessary services, which treat diagnosed diseases or conditions.

Additionally, Part B covers durable medical equipment, such as a wheelchair or walker.

Generally, Part B costs an additional premium per month. However, those who qualify for Medicaid benefits may have their Part B premium partially or fully covered.

Part C: Medicare Advantage

Together, Medicare Parts A and B comprise Original Medicare.

With that said, getting the other parts of Medicare requires Original Medicare.

Medicare Part C plans must cover the same services offered by Original Medicare, and many extend benefits to services not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing. 

Also known as Medicare Advantage, these plans offer networks of doctors, hospitals, and other providers locally and nationally.

What’s more, Medicare Advantage plans can offer low or even zero cost premium options, and many include Medicare prescription drug benefits all-in-one.

Part D: Prescription Drugs

Lastly, Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs.

Overall, Part D plans reduce the price of medications prescribed by your doctor that you would then pick up at your local pharmacy.

In order to obtain Part D coverage, beneficiaries can enroll in either a stand-alone prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that combines medical and prescription benefits all-in-one.

At no cost, we can help you find the plan to suit both your medical needs and your personal preferences. Enter your zip to get help comparing plans offered in your area.