Understanding the Four Parts of Medicare, Plus Medigap, in Plain Language

The Shortest Possible Answer

Medicare is divided into Parts A and B (Original Medicare), Part C (Medicare Advantage), Part D (prescriptions), and Medigap (supplemental). Most people use a combination.

Part a - Hospital Insurance

Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health. If you or a spouse worked at least 10 years (40 quarters) and paid Medicare taxes, Part A has no premium.

Part B - Medical Insurance

Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment (walkers, oxygen, and similar). Most people pay the standard monthly premium, which is set each year. Higher earners pay more through an income-related adjustment called IRMAA. Check the current amount at Medicare.gov or ask a licensed agent.

Part C - Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans replace Original Medicare with a bundled private plan. They almost always include Part D drug coverage and frequently add dental, vision, hearing, and wellness benefits. You'll choose between HMO, PPO, or Special Needs Plans (SNPs).

Part D - Prescription Drugs

Part D plans cover prescription medications. You can buy a standalone Part D plan or get one bundled into Medicare Advantage. Costs depend on the carrier's formulary (drug list), your specific prescriptions, and the pharmacy network.

Medigap - Supplemental Coverage

Medigap plans (also called Medicare Supplement Insurance) pay what Original Medicare doesn't - deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Plans are standardized A through N, so a Plan G from one carrier covers the same as a Plan G from another. The differences are price and customer service.

How They Fit Together

You generally choose either Original Medicare + Medigap + standalone Part D, or Medicare Advantage with built-in Part D. We help you decide based on your doctors, prescriptions, and travel patterns.

Request your personal Medicare evaluation. Call (714) 922-0043 or send a request through our contact page.