Medicare Plans
Understand the Medicare basics from Original Medicare and beyond
Medicare Plans in Jay, Florida 32565
Medicare is the national health insurance program that is offered to individuals 65 and older and some people under 65 who have specific disabilities.
Created in 1965, Medicare started with just two parts – Part A and Part B, also referred to as Original Medicare. Later on, additional parts – Part C and Part D – were added as the needs of Medicare beneficiaries changed.
We break Medicare down so you can better understand it and know how to enroll and choose a plan that is right for you.
What Are the Different Parts of Medicare?
Original Medicare consists of Parts A and B. These are sponsored by the government.
It is important to understand that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover all of your medical expenses. Because of this, other Medicare plans exist to help provide additional coverage for those who need it.
Part C, or Medicare Advantage, plans are private health plans. This Medicare insurance plan includes coverage for everything Part A and Part B cover, and sometimes Part D, depending on the plan.
Part D, or Prescription Drug Coverage, plans are also private health plans. They offer coverage for prescription drug costs.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help pay some costs not covered by Original Medicare Parts A and B. Medigap plans are private health plans as well.
What Does Aging into Medicare Look Like?
Part A
Medicare Part A covers inpatient care, which includes:
- Hospital care
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Short-term nursing home care
- Home healthcare services*
- *In limited circumstances
Part B
Medicare Part B covers many outpatient services and supplies, which includes:
- Doctor’s visits
- Some preventive care
- Laboratory tests
- Mental health
- Durable medical equipment (DME)