Parts of Medicare
The 4 Main Parts of Medicare
Medicare is divided into four parts, and each one covers a different type of healthcare. Understanding these parts helps you know what is covered — and what you may want to add.
Part A — Hospital Insurance
What it helps cover:
- Inpatient hospital stays
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice care
- Limited home health services
Think of Part A as protection for major medical events that require hospital care.
Most people pay a $0 monthly premium if they worked and paid Medicare taxes long enough.
Part B — Medical Insurance
What it helps cover:
- Doctor visits
- Outpatient care
- Preventive services (screenings, vaccines)
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Durable medical equipment
Think of Part B as coverage for your routine medical care and doctor services.
Most people pay a monthly premium plus a deductible and typically 20% coinsurance.
Part C — Medicare Advantage
This is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies.
Usually includes:
- Everything in Part A + Part B
- Often, prescription drug coverage
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or fitness programs
Think of Part C as a bundled plan that may offer extra perks and an annual spending cap.
Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage
Helps pay for medications you pick up at the pharmacy.
You enroll through a private plan — either:
A standalone drug plan with Original Medicare
or
Included inside many Medicare Advantage plans
Think of Part D as protection against high medication costs.
Review Costs Every Year
Medicare costs often change each year (premiums, deductibles, maximum out-of-pocket limits), so review them during open enrollment.
Is Your Current Plan Still the Best Fit?
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