Medicare is a Federal Health Insurance Program or a Health Insurance sponsored and regulated by the Federal Government.
It is designed to cover health care for seniors over 65 years old, or the disabled under 65 years of age.
It is designed to cover health care for seniors over 65 years old, or the disabled under 65 years of age.
There is a lot to say about Medicare and I can answer questions and clarify confusions and inform you about the value, rules, benefits, limitations of Medicare.
Today, I want to focus on the Parts of Medicare because I was just asked about it. So here is the simple answer:
Medicare Part A - covers hospital care - hospital insurance benefits
skilled nursing home
rehabilitation
hospice care
home health services
Medicare Part B - covers outpatient care, like doctor's visits, urgent care
drugs prescribed at doctor's office
DME - durable medical equipment, as wheelchair, oxygen tank
Medicare Part C - is known as Medicare Advantage. It combines both Part A + Part B. And often Part D.
NOTE - Hospice is not included in Part C. It is Part A.
Medicare Part D - covers prescription drugs that are self-administered, meaning the drugs you take on your own and you get at your pharmacy
Once you are eligible for Medicare, you get Original Medicare that includes Parts A and B.
Original Medicare is a fee-for-service health program.
Remember it is Hospital Insurance and Medical Insurance and it covers you nationwide to any doctor or hospital that has a contract (accepts) Medicare and no referral needed.
Note that Original Medicare covers 80% of the cost and the remaining 20% is paid by the beneficiary.
And note - Original Medicare does not cover prescriptions at the pharmacy (that is with Part D).
Part C - Medicare Advantage - is health insurance coverage designed by a private insurance company with contract with Medicare and regulated by the Federal Government (CMS).
It bundles Part A and Part B and often Part D, and many offer supplement coverage such as dental and vision.
I hope this simple review of Medicare division in Parts was helpful. Feel free to contact me with questions, or so.
I attach copy of the handbook- Medicare & You - 2026. An official guide from Medicare.
I hope to hear back from you soon. Until then - Be well and Share Life!
Ana V Magalhaes
