Medicare is federal health insurance primarily for people age 65 or older and for certain younger people with disabilities or qualifying conditions. Your choices generally start with Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C).
The parts of Medicare
- Part A: Hospital insurance for covered inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
- Part B: Medical insurance for covered doctor services, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and other services.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): A private-plan alternative to Original Medicare that includes Parts A and B and usually Part D.
- Part D: Prescription drug coverage offered through private plans that contract with Medicare.
Ways to add or receive coverage
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) can help pay certain out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare. People eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid may also have access to a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan, depending on eligibility and local plan availability.
How to compare your choices
Compare total yearly costs, prescription coverage, doctors and hospitals, travel needs, referrals, prior authorization rules, extra benefits, and the plan's quality rating. Costs and plan networks can change each year. Always verify a plan's current documents and confirm your providers and prescriptions before enrolling.