Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older. It also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific diseases like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.

• Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some home health care.

• Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private insurance plans that combine Part A, Part B, and usually Part D.

• Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs.

You qualify if:

• You are 65 or older.

• You are under 65 and have a qualifying disability. 

• You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS.

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare. They include all Part A and Part B coverage, and usually prescription drug coverage, plus extras like dental, vision, and hearing.

Original Medicare

• Run by the federal government.

• Freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare.

• No dental, vision, or hearing coverage automatically.

• Can add Medigap.

Medicare Advantage

• Run by private insurers.

• Typically lower out-of-pocket costs, but a network of providers.

• May include extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs).

If you take any prescriptions, it’s highly recommended. Without creditable drug coverage, you could face a late enrollment penalty later if you go without it.

Medigap plans help cover the "gaps" in Original Medicare like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

• You must have Part A and Part B to buy a Medigap policy.

• They do not cover prescription drugs, dental, vision, or hearing.