MEDICARE BASICS

Understanding Medicare Starts Here.

Medicare can seem complicated at first. Understanding the different parts of Medicare is a good first step toward understanding your coverage options.

A

Medicare Part A

Hospital Insurance

Part A generally helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and certain home health care.

B

Medicare Part B

Medical Insurance

Part B generally helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment, and other medically necessary services.

C

Medicare Part C

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They provide Part A and Part B coverage and may include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits.

D

Medicare Part D

Prescription Drug Coverage

Part D helps cover prescription medications. Drug coverage can be provided through a standalone Part D plan or included with many Medicare Advantage plans.

Remember: Medicare coverage is not one-size-fits-all. Understanding the basics can help you make more informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.

YOUR MEDICARE OPTIONS

Two Main Paths to Medicare Coverage.

Once you're enrolled in Medicare, there are different ways to receive your coverage. Understanding the difference can help you determine which approach may fit your needs.

Original Medicare

Parts A & B

  • Part A helps cover inpatient hospital care and other covered services.
  • Part B helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, and other medically necessary services.
  • You can generally see any doctor or healthcare provider that accepts Medicare.
  • You can add a separate Part D plan for prescription drug coverage.
  • You may also choose a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy to help with certain out-of-pocket costs.

Medicare Advantage

Part C

  • Offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
  • Provides your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage through the plan.
  • Many plans include prescription drug coverage.
  • Plans may offer additional benefits beyond Original Medicare.
  • Networks, costs, benefits, and plan rules vary depending on the plan and where you live.

Which Option Is Right for You?

There isn't one Medicare option that's right for everyone. Your doctors, prescriptions, healthcare needs, budget, and personal preferences can all play a role in choosing coverage.

FINDING COVERAGE THAT FITS

Medicare Is Personal. Your Coverage Should Be Too.

Comparing Medicare coverage isn't just about looking at a monthly premium. It's important to consider the things that matter most to you and your healthcare needs.

01

Your Doctors

Consider whether your preferred doctors, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare providers participate in the coverage you're considering.

02

Your Prescriptions

Check whether your medications are covered and understand how prescription costs can vary between different coverage options.

03

Your Costs

Look beyond the monthly premium. Deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs can all affect your overall expenses.

04

Your Priorities

Think about what matters most to you, whether that's flexibility, pharmacy access, additional benefits, or keeping certain providers.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Understanding Medicare is the first step. If you're ready to take the next step, we can help you review available Medicare plan options and understand how they may fit your needs.

Explore Medicare Plan Reviews →