What is Medicare?

Original Medicare is a fee-for-service health plan that has two parts: Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). After you pay a deductible, Medicare pays its share of the Medicare-approved amount, and you pay your share (coinsurance and deductibles).

Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, includes all the benefits and services a member would receive under original Medicare Parts A and B. Usually the plan includes Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D). Some plans may even include dental and vision coverage, wellness programs, and personal care management. Medicare Advantage is offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies and may include extra benefits and services. Many Medicare Advantage plans have low monthly premiums, some as low as $0.

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) is extra insurance you can buy from a private health insurance company to help pay your share of out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare. These plans allow you to pay an upfront premium to ensure your co- insurance and deductibles are covered in the event of illness.