Original Medicare 

What is Original Medicare?

Original Medicare includes Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B(Medical Insurance).

When you apply for Medicare, you will automatically be enrolled into Medicare Part A. It covers hospital stays, hospice care and some skilled nursing care that you may need after being hospitalized for a stroke, a broken hip or other episodes that require rehabilitation in a nursing home or another kind of facility so you can get back on your feet.

Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, lab tests, diagnostic screenings, medical equipment and ambulance transportations and other outpatient services. Unlike Part A, Part B involves more costs, and you may want to defer signing up for Part B if you are still working and have insurance through your job or are covered by your spouse’s health plan.

 

Medicare Advantage

What is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) is another Medicare health plan choice you may have as part of Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called “Part C” or “MA Plans,” are offered by private companies approved by Medicare.

If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, the plan will provide all of your Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans may offer extra coverage, such as vision, hearing, dental, and/or health and wellness programs. Most include Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D).

Medicare pays a fixed amount for your care every month to the companies offering Medicare Advantage Plans. These companies must follow rules set by Medicare. However, each Medicare Advantage Plan can charge different out-of-pocket costs and have different rules for how you get services (like whether you need a referral to see a specialist or if you have to go to only doctors, facilities, or suppliers that belong to the plan for non‑emergency or non-urgent care). These rules can change each year.

 

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans

What is Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)?

Medigap is Medicare Supplement Insurance that helps fill “gaps” in Original Medicare and is sold by private companies. Original Medicare will pay for a lot, but not all, of the cost for covered health care services and supplies. Choosing a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy can help pay some of the remaining health care costs.

 

Medicare Part D: Stand-alone Prescription Drug Plans

What is Medicare Part D?

Medicare Part D (Stand-alone Prescription Drug Plans) can help you pay for prescription drugs that you need. Prescription drug coverage is optional and is available to everyone with Medicare.

How can I get Medicare drug coverage?

To get Medicare drug coverage, you must join a plan run by an insurance company or other private company approved by Medicare. Each plan can vary in cost and drugs covered. If you decide not to get Medicare drug coverage when you are first eligible, you are likely to pay a late enrollment penalty.