Medicare coverage
Understanding the parts of Medicare, in plain language
Medicare has several parts, and they work together in different ways. Coverage, costs, provider networks, and eligibility can vary by plan and location — so the right fit depends on your situation.
Part A & Part B
Original Medicare
The federal program administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Part A generally helps cover hospital and inpatient care; Part B generally helps cover doctor visits and outpatient services. Deductibles, coinsurance, and coverage rules apply.
Does not cover all costs. Many people add supplemental coverage to help with out-of-pocket expenses.
Part C
Medicare Advantage
Plans offered by private insurance companies that include your Part A and Part B coverage, and often bundle additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, or hearing. These plans have their own networks, rules, and cost structures.
Benefits, costs, networks, and availability vary by plan and location.
Medigap
Medicare Supplement Insurance
Supplemental insurance sold by private companies that can help pay some of the out-of-pocket costs (like deductibles and coinsurance) that Original Medicare does not cover. Medigap plans work alongside Original Medicare.
Not the same as Medicare Advantage. Availability and options vary by state.
Part D
Prescription Drug Coverage
Standalone prescription drug plans offered by private insurers that help cover the cost of covered medications. You can add Part D to Original Medicare, or it may be included in some Medicare Advantage plans.
Formularies, tiers, and costs differ from plan to plan.
Coverage varies — and so does what’s available to you
This page explains how the parts of Medicare generally work. It does not list specific premiums, benefits, provider networks, drug coverage, or carrier names — those depend on the plans available where you live and the agent’s appointments and certifications. We help you compare what is actually available to you, without unapproved plan-specific promises.
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