Medicare 101
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older, and for some younger people with disabilities or specific conditions. It has four parts — A, B, C, and D. Parts A and B are 'Original Medicare' from the government. Part C (Medicare Advantage) is an alternative way to receive Part A and Part B coverage through a Medicare-approved private plan; Part D provides prescription drug coverage.
How the four parts of Medicare work
Part A covers hospital care (usually premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes long enough — generally at least 10 years). Part B covers doctors and outpatient care (monthly premium by income). Part C bundles A, B, and usually D into one private plan. Part D covers prescriptions.
Where to start
Many people compare Original Medicare (often paired with Medigap and a Part D plan) with Medicare Advantage. We can explain the differences and help review plans we represent for your situation.
Official Medicare resources
Questions, answered
Is Medicare free?
Medicare is not free for most people. Part A is usually premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes long enough (generally 10 years). Part B has a monthly premium. Some Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 plan premium, but you generally still pay the Part B premium and may have deductibles, copays, or coinsurance. Part D premiums and other costs vary by plan.
Is Medicare the same as Medicaid?
No. Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age, while Medicaid is a joint federal-state program. Medicaid eligibility categories, income and resource rules, and covered services vary by state. Some people qualify for both; contact your state Medicaid agency to confirm eligibility.
What are the main ways to get Medicare coverage?
Most people choose Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), sometimes with a separate Part D drug plan and Medigap, or Medicare Advantage (Part C), which provides Part A and Part B through a private plan and may include Part D. Costs, provider rules, and benefits vary, so compare the specific options available to you.
Does Medicare cover prescription drugs?
Part D covers prescription drugs. You can get Part D through a separate drug plan with Original Medicare or through many Medicare Advantage plans; covered drugs, pharmacies, premiums, and other costs vary by plan.
Talk with a licensed agent
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