Medicare Basics - The 4 Parts of Medicare
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and over, some younger with disabilities and those with End Stage Renal Disease. Medicare is a different program from Medicaid, which offers healthcare and services to those who meet the qualified lower income requirements. Anyone receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) for 24 months, will also become eligible for Medicare.
When discussing some of the Medicare basics, It’s important to know that there are 4 Parts of Medicare and each part works in a unique way to help cover your healthcare expenses.
What Is Medicare Part A And What Does It Cover?
Medicare Part A is inpatient and hospital insurance. Part A helps cover:
- Inpatient hospital care
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice care
- Some home health care
What is medicare Part B and What does it cover?
Medicare Part B is outpatient medical insurance. Part B helps cover:
- Services from a doctor
- Outpatient care
- Durable medical equipment
- Preventative services
- Some home health care
What Is Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) are privately managed, federally approved Medicare plans.
Part C plans combine the benefits of Part A and B into one plan and may also include:
- Prescription drug coverage
- Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- Wellness programs and telehealth services
What Is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D plans provide beneficiaries with privately managed, federally approved prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Part A and B do not offer prescription drug coverage, so Part D helps:
- Manage prescription drug costs
- Provide lower cost-sharing for in-network and preferred pharmacies
What does Medicare Pay?
New to Medicare with Employer Coverage?
There are several factors to consider if it makes sense to keep your employer coverage alongside your Medicare or would it be better to leave the employer coverage and choose Medicare as your primary insurance.
A few key questions would include: How large or small is the employer? How much is your monthly premium? Do you perfer a network based plan or would you like to have more freedom to choose any provider that accepts Medicare?
When it comes to Medicare, there is no one size fits all. Knowing your situation and what you find important, provides answers that help determine which road may be more suitable for you.
Need Help with your Medicare Parts
We understand that learning about Medicare can seem confusing. Especially knowing when and how to sign up for each part, to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines. This is where our team of friendly agents can help.
If you would like to understand which part you may need and how to protect yourself against unaffordable medical bills, then we welcome you to call us at the number listed below. Our services are 100% free and we are here to answer any questions.
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