What is Medicare?

Medicare is the federal government’s health insurance program for anyone 65 or older. Also covered are individuals under the age of 65 with qualifying disabilities and those suffering from End-Stage Renal Disease or ESRD (permanent kidney failure that requires dialysis or a transplant). Each of its four parts help cover specific health-related services.

Part A (Hospital Insurance)

Under Part A, inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing home facility or hospice, and some home health care are covered.

Check with your Hospital.

Part B (Medical Insurance)

Part B covers certain physicians’ and preventive services, outpatient care, and medical supplies.

Check with your Doctor.

Part C (Advantage Plans)

This health plan is offered by private insurance companies that contract with the government to provide all the Part A and Part B benefits. An Advantage Plan includes:

  • Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO)
  • Preferred Provider Organizations
  • Private Fee-for-Service Plans
  • Special Needs Plans
  • Medical Savings Account Plans

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, services are covered rather than being paid for under Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans typically offer prescription drug coverage.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

Part D prescription drug coverage works alongside of Original Medicare to provide coverage for prescription medications. These plans are offered by  private insurance companies approved by Medicare. The Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans may provide prescription drug coverage similar to what is offered through the Part D Prescription Drug Plans.

Coverage Chart

Medicare Part A (Hospital Coverage)

  • Inpatient care in hospitals
  • Skilled nursing facility care
  • Hospice care
  • Home health care
 Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

  • Services from doctors and health providers
  • Outpatient care
  • Home health care
  • Durable medical equipment
  • Some preventive services
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

  • Includes all benefits and services covered under Part A and Part B
  • Usually includes Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) as part of the plan
  • Offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies
  • May include extra benefits and services for an extra cost
 Medicare Part D (Drug Coverage)

  • Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs
  • Run by Medicare-approved private insurance companies
  • May help lower your prescription drug costs and help protect against higher costs in the future

Which Type of Coverage Do You Have?

  • Check your red, white and blue card.
  • Check other insurance cards you may use. Dial the number on the back for more information about what’s covered.
  • Visit the official site to check your health or prescription drug plan enrollment.
  • Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should dial 1-877-486-2048.

Sources:

Compare Medigap Plans Online