Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:

• People 65 and older

• People under 65 with certain disabilities

• People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS

It’s made up of different parts, each covering specific healthcare needs.

Part A – Hospital Insurance
Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and limited home health services.
Cost: Usually free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.

Part B – Medical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment.
Cost: Monthly premium (based on income), plus a deductible and coinsurance.

Part C – Medicare Advantage
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare, offered by private insurers. Most plans include:

• Part A and B coverage

• Prescription drug coverage (Part D)

• May include supplemental benefits

Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
Helps pay for medications. Available as a standalone plan with Original Medicare or included in many Medicare Advantage plans.
Cost: Varies by plan (premium, deductible, and copays).

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) helps cover out-of-pocket costs like copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.

• Only works with Original Medicare (not Advantage plans)

• Sold by private insurance companies

• Healthcare Costs Add Up
  Medicare doesn’t cover everything. The right plan can help reduce expenses for doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions.

• Fill the Gaps
  Services like dental, vision, hearing, and long-term care aren’t covered by Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage or supplemental coverage can fill the gaps to services that are not covered by Original Medicare.

• Protect Your Savings
  Health issues can lead to large medical bills. Coverage that includes prescriptions or supplements your plan can ease the financial strain.

• Customize for Your Needs
  Medicare offers options so you can build a plan that fits your health and budget.

• Get Preventive Care
  Screenings and wellness visits are included with Part B and Advantage plans, helping you stay ahead of health issues.