If Medicare feels like alphabet soup, start with the basics. Part A helps cover hospital and inpatient care. Part B helps cover doctor visits and outpatient care. Together, Parts A and B are known as Original Medicare.
What are Medicare Parts A and B?
Part A generally helps with inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and certain home health services. Part B generally helps with physician services, outpatient care, preventive services, and medically necessary services and supplies.
If you are approaching 65, start by understanding when to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B and when your coverage may begin.
What is Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C, better known as Medicare Advantage, is another way to receive your Medicare-covered Part A and Part B services through a private Medicare-approved plan. Many Medicare Advantage plans also include Part D prescription drug coverage and may include additional benefits.
What is Medicare Part D?
Part D is Medicare prescription drug coverage. You may receive it through a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage or through a stand-alone Part D plan when you stay with Original Medicare.
Where does Medigap fit?
Medicare Supplement insurance, commonly called Medigap, works with Original Medicare and can help pay certain out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not pay. Medigap is not the same as Medicare Advantage. You can read more in our Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement comparison.
What should you compare?
The best fit depends on more than the monthly premium. Compare your doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, pharmacies, travel patterns, budget, and how much provider flexibility you want.
If you live in Summerfield, The Villages area, Marion County, Sumter County, or nearby Central Florida communities, start with your medication list and provider list before comparing options. Explore our Medicare guidance or request a Medicare review.
Plan availability, benefits, networks, costs, and eligibility vary. Review current plan documents and Medicare.gov before enrolling.