Understanding the Four Parts of Medicare Explained

At a Glance: The Four Parts of Medicare

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient stays, skilled nursing, and hospice.

• Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services.

• Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private plans that bundle Parts A and B and may include additional benefits like dental and vision.

• Part D (Prescription Drug Plans): Helps cover the cost of prescription medications.

Original Medicare only covers about 80% of your Medicare Part B expenses, but there are other Medicare plan options to consider that may help cover out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage plans, offers an alternative to Original Medicare and may also include additional routine benefits. Additionally, yo u can explore supplemental coverage like Medicare Part D or a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan. Let’s walk through the four different parts of Medicare—Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D—and their purpose. 

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Which is right for you?

Path 1: Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

You keep traditional Medicare and can see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare. You may choose to add a Medigap (Supplement) plan to help cover out-of-pocket costs, and/or a standalone Part D plan for prescription drug coverage.

Path 2: Medicare Advantage (Part C)

You choose a Part C plan from a private insurer, which offers the same coverage as Parts A and B and may include prescription drug coverage and other benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.