The ABC’s of Medicare
Medicare consists of various programs, commonly referred to as parts. You'll have the choice between enrolling in Original Medicare, comprising Parts A and B, or selecting Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage.
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A primarily covers hospitalization expenses, including:
Inpatient care in hospitals
Skilled nursing home care (excluding custodial or long-term care)
Hospice care
Home health care
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B addresses non-hospitalization healthcare needs, offering coverage for:
Medically necessary services like doctor visits, tests, and treatments
Preventive services such as routine screenings, check-ups, and vaccinations
Clinical research
Ambulance services
Durable medical equipment
Mental health services
Limited outpatient prescription drugs
Together, Medicare Parts A and B are collectively known as Original Medicare.
Medicare Part C
Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, integrates the coverage of Parts A and B into a single plan provided by private health insurance companies contracting with Medicare. Advantage plans are mandated by law to offer at least the same coverage as Original Medicare, with variations in rules and potential additional benefits. Many Advantage plans also include Part D, or prescription drug coverage.
Common types of Part C plans include:
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans
Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
HMO Point of Service Plans (HMOPOS)
Medicare Medical Savings Account (MMSA)
If you choose a Part C plan, you'll have the opportunity to review plans, benefits, and premiums annually during the Annual Election Period.