Medicare Basics

Medicare provides healthcare coverage to individuals over the age of 65, and those with disabilities or specific health conditions. The program is very beneficial but is often seen as complicated and confusing to those who are unfamiliar with the terminology. If you are confused, you’re not alone. Most seniors – even those with coverage – are unfamiliar with Medicare or what it offers.

Original Medicare

Part A: hospital and inpatient care

Part B: doctor visits and outpatient care

Use any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare

Add a separate Part D plan for prescription drugs

Medicare Advantage

Combines Part A and Part B in a single plan

Often includes prescription drug coverage

May offer extra benefits such as dental and vision

Uses a plan network of doctors and hospitals

Medicare has four parts. Part A covers hospital and inpatient care, and Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient care — together these make up Original Medicare. Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is an all-in-one alternative offered by private insurance companies that bundles Parts A and B and often adds prescription drug coverage and extra benefits. Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. The right choice depends on your budget, the doctors you want to see, and the prescriptions you take — which is exactly what our plan finder helps you compare.