Part A
Hospital insurance
- Inpatient hospital care
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice
- Some home health care
Most people pay no monthly Part A premium if they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes for about 10 years (40 quarters).
The four parts of Medicare
Most people start with Part A and Part B, then decide whether to add Part D or switch to a Part C Medicare Advantage plan.
Part B
Medical insurance
- Doctor visits
- Outpatient care
- Preventive services
- Durable medical equipment
Part B has a monthly premium. People with higher incomes may pay more (IRMAA).
Part C
Medicare Advantage
- Private alternative to Original Medicare
- Must cover Part A and Part B services
- Often includes Part D drugs
- May use networks and extra benefits
You still have Medicare. You get A and B (and often D) through a private plan.
Part D
Prescription drugs
- Optional drug coverage
- Stand-alone plan or through Advantage
- Formulary and pharmacy networks vary
- Late enrollment can mean a penalty
If you go without creditable drug coverage after you are first eligible, you may pay a lifetime late penalty.
Original Medicare does not usually cover long-term custodial care, most dental, hearing aids, or routine vision. Some Advantage plans add extras.
How to enroll