Medicare 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Parts A, B, C, and D

Understanding the Basics So You Can Make Informed Choices

If you’re approaching age 65 or helping a loved one navigate their healthcare options, chances are you’ve come across the word “Medicare” — and maybe felt overwhelmed by the many parts and plans involved. You’re not alone.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, and for certain younger individuals with disabilities. But what trips most people up is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all system. It’s made up of multiple parts, each covering different services.

Let’s break it down into plain language:

Part A: Hospital Insurance

What it covers:

• Inpatient hospital stays

• Skilled nursing facility care (short-term)

• Hospice care

• Some home health care

What to know:Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. However, there are deductibles and coinsurance costs that can apply.

Part B: Medical Insurance

What it covers:

• Doctor visits

• Outpatient care

• Preventive services (like screenings and flu shots)

• Durable medical equipment (like walkers or oxygen)

What to know:Part B has a monthly premium, which varies based on income. There’s also an annual deductible and typically a 20% coinsurance for most services.

Part C: Medicare Advantage (All-in-One Plans)

What it is: Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They bundle together Parts A and B, and often Part D (prescription drug coverage), along with extra benefits.

What it may include:

• Vision, dental, and hearing benefits

• Wellness programs and gym memberships

• Prescription drug coverage

• An annual out-of-pocket limit (unlike Original Medicare)

What to know:You still pay your Part B premium (and sometimes an additional plan premium), but you get coordinated care through a plan network, like an HMO or PPO.

Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage

What it covers:

• Prescription medications

How it works:Part D plans are standalone plans offered by private insurers or included as part of some Medicare Advantage plans.

What to know:Plans vary in cost and coverage, so it’s important to review the formulary (list of covered drugs) to make sure your prescriptions are included.

How the Parts Work Together

Medicare Part	What It Covers	Who Offers It	Key Details
Part A	Hospital care	Federal government	Usually premium-free
Part B	Medical services & supplies	Federal government	Monthly premium required
Part C	All-in-one plans (A + B + often D)	Private insurers	May offer extra benefits
Part D	Prescription drugs	Private insurers	Standalone or bundled

Still Confused? You’re Not Alone.

Choosing the right Medicare path depends on your health needs, your budget, and your preferences for how you receive care. Some people prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare (Parts A & B) with a separate drug plan and supplemental coverage (Medigap). Others like the convenience of Medicare Advantage (Part C) with built-in extras.

That’s where having a knowledgeable guide can make a huge difference.

Need Help Deciding?

I specialize in helping people just like you understand your Medicare options and find coverage that fits your life — not the other way around.

Whether you’re aging into Medicare or helping a loved one plan ahead, I’m here to answer your questions and simplify the process.