Medicare Explained
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that helps cover medical costs for:
• People age 65 and older
• People under 65 with certain disabilities
• People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
Medicare can be confusing at first, but once you understand the “parts,” it gets much easier.
Original Medicare Explained
Medicare Part A — Hospital Coverage
Part A helps cover inpatient care, including:
• Hospital stays
• Skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay)
• Hospice care
• Limited home health care
Most people pay $0 for Part A if they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes long enough while working.
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Medicare Part B — Medical Coverage
Part B helps cover everyday medical care, including:
• Doctor visits and specialists
• Outpatient services
• Preventive care (like screenings and wellness visits)
• Lab work and imaging
• Durable medical equipment (walkers, oxygen, etc.)
Part B typically has a monthly premium.about your business here.
Two Common Ways To Build Medicare Coverage
Option 1: Original Medicare + Add-Ons
Many people choose:
• Part A + Part B (Original Medicare)
• Add Part D for prescriptions
• Add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help with out-of-pocket costs
This option is often chosen for flexibility with providers and predictable coverage.
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Option 2: Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Many people choose a single Medicare Advantage plan that combines:
• A + B, and often D, plus extra benefits
This option is often chosen for bundled coverage and extra perks.