What does each part of Medicare cover?

Part A helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and home health care. Part B covers things like doctors' services, tests and preventive services. Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. (Medicare.gov)

Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage

Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B. You can use any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare, and you can join a separate Medicare drug plan for Part D. (Medicare.gov)

Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is a Medicare-approved plan from a private company. These bundled plans include Part A, Part B and usually Part D. You may need to use doctors in the plan's network and get prior authorization for certain drugs or services. (Medicare.gov)

Medicare Advantage plans must cover all medically necessary services that Original Medicare covers, with a few exclusions. Some plans add benefits Original Medicare does not cover, such as certain vision, hearing and dental services. (Medicare.gov)

Next step: free counseling from SHIP

If you are choosing or comparing plans for yourself or someone you care for, call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). SHIP counselors compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Part D plans, screen for Extra Help with drug costs and Medicare Savings Programs, and help with appeals. Find a local SHIP at shiphelp.org or 1-877-839-2675. (GiveCare Wiki)

Who decides

Medicare and your plan decide what is covered for a specific service. This page explains the parts of Medicare; it is not a coverage or eligibility decision. For the wider caregiver benefits map, see What Benefits Can Family Caregivers Use?

Common questions

What does each part of Medicare cover?

Part A helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and home health care. Part B covers things like doctors' services, tests and preventive services. Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs.

What is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a Medicare-approved plan from a private company. It bundles Part A, Part B and usually Part D, and you may need to use the plan's network and get prior approval for some care.

Who can help me compare Medicare plans for free?

Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free one-on-one Medicare counseling for beneficiaries, families and caregivers. Find a local SHIP at shiphelp.org or 1-877-839-2675.