Breaking down the four types of Medicare

Medicare is health insurance for people age 65 and older. However, the word “Medicare” can be confusing because it can mean more than one thing. There are actually four types of Medicare.

Original Medicare (Medicare Parts A and B)

This is Medicare from the federal government. It’s the simplest, most basic form of Medicare and is made up of two parts: Part A covers hospital costs, and Part B covers outpatient medical services, including doctor visits. Original Medicare does leave some pretty significant gaps in your healthcare coverage. Learn more in a previous blog post.

Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C)

These plans are offered by private companies. They cover everything Original Medicare does and more, sometimes including extra benefits that can save you money and help you stay healthy. There are quite a few myths about Medicare Advantage plans. We bust these myths in a previous blog post.

Medicare Supplement plans (MedSupp)

You might hear this called Medigap. It covers some or all of what Original Medicare doesn’t pay, but it does not come with extras. These plans are provided by private companies. You can’t enroll in both a Medicare Advantage and MedSupp plan, so it’s important to understand the similarities and differences between the two. We dive into these in a previous blog post.

Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (PDP) (Medicare Part D)

These plans help you save money on prescription medications. They’re important to think about, because Original Medicare and Medicare Supplement Plans do not cover prescription drugs. However, PDP coverage is included with many Medicare Advantage Plans.

As you get closer to age 65, there are important choices you’ll need to make about your healthcare. To make the most of Medicare, you need to understand your options and how they work. Aspire Health Plan is here to answer any Medicare questions you may have. Give us a call at your convenience for friendly, no-obligation advice. Call (855) 378-9680. (TTY users call 711.).

Get all the information you need. Request a free Guide to Medicare

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