WHAT IS MEDICARE?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older and for some younger individuals with disabilities or certain health conditions. It helps cover many health care costs, but it’s important to understand how the program is structured so you can make informed choices.
THE FOUR PARTS OF MEDICARE
Medicare is divided into four parts, each offering different types of coverage:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Helps cover inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor’s visits, outpatient care, preventative services, and some home health care. You’ll pay a monthly premium for Part B.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): Offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, these plans bundle Part A and Part B – and often Part D – into one plan. Many also include extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription medications. Part D plans are offered by private insurers and can be added to Original Medicare.
Understanding the different parts of Medicare is the first step toward making confident, informed decisions about your health coverage. Whether you’re just getting started or helping a loved one, knowing the basics sets the foundation for what’s next. In our upcoming blog, we’ll take a closer look at your Medicare choices – how to enroll, what to consider when comparing plans, and tips to find coverage that fits your needs.
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?
Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. To learn more about Medicare Advantage plans you can visit our website, www.selecthealth.org/medicare or call our Select Health Medicare Answer Team at 855-442-9940 (TTY:711) weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.