About Medicare

Medicare is federal health insurance for those age 65 and older. You may also be eligible if you have a disability, End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease).

Four Parts of Medicare

Part A
Hospital Insurance

Covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing, and hospice. It is premium free for most who have worked or paid into social security.

Part B
Medical Insurance

Covers medically necessary services and supplies to diagnose and treat your medical conditions. This comes with a premium for most. Part B also covers preventative services in order to prevent or detect illnesses at an early stage when best treatable. Understanding your eligibility for Part B is important in avoiding penalties.

Part C
Medicare Advantage Plans

These are plans approved by Medicare but offered by private companies. They combine part A and B services in one plan in addition to extra benefits. Most include drug coverage as well.

Part D
Prescription Drug Plans

Medicare drug coverage offered by companies approved by Medicare. Although optional, getting Medicare drug coverage when first eligible can help you avoid a penalty, unless you are working with creditable coverage or have VA coverage.