A Quick Guide For Medicare First-Timers

Medicare is a national health insurance program backed by the U.S. government. Nearly all Americans who qualify for Original Medicare enroll.

Understanding the Parts of Medicare

Medicare Part A: Covers inpatient hospital care. You must enroll if you receive Social Security and are over the age of 65. Some people call Part A “hospital insurance.”
Part A covers:

• Inpatient hospital care
• Stays in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities – but there are limits on time
• Home services like home health visits
• Hospice care

Medicare Part B: Covers outpatient doctor care. You can apply by contacting your local Social Security office. Some people call Part B “medical insurance.”
Part B covers:

• Outpatient medical services, including routine doctor visits
• Preventive services, like flu shots and mammograms
• Equipment or tests administered during outpatient services
• Medication administered during outpatient visits

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage):

• Medicare Advantage plans replace your Original Medicare with healthcare from a private insurance company.
• These plans are required to cover everything that Original Medicare does. Many plans are $0 per month AND include prescription drug coverage.
• Most importantly, these plans have a $7,550 out-of-pocket maximum in 2022 and can include additional benefits that aren’t part of Original Medicare (like hearing aids).
• However, you will be tied to the insurance plan’s doctor network.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plans):

• Prescription drug payments generally aren’t covered by Original Medicare.
• Medicare Part D plans add prescription drug coverage to your existing Medicare benefits. Many Part C plans are bundled with Part D coverage.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap):

• Medicare Supplement plans fill the “gaps” in coverage Medicare Supplement plans can only be bundled with Original Medicare, and fill the “gaps” in coverage Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
• All plans cover your Part A hospital costs, and give you extra time in the hospital.
• Most plans cover your full Part B coinsurance.
• Some plans even cover your Original Medicare deductibles and excess charges.

Getting a Medicare Quote from a Licensed Sales Agent

HealHealthCare.com will connect you to a licensed insurance agent, They’ll fully explain your Medicare options, and show you a personalized set of coverage choices.