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Original Parts of Medicare:

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Parts A and B

You’ll sign up for Medicare through Social Security. You can sign up for Parts A and B, or Part A only.

Part A (hospital insurance)

Part A helps pay for inpatient care at:

• Hospitals

• Skilled nursing facilities

• Hospice

It also covers some outpatient home health care.

Part A is free if you worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. You may also be eligible because of your current or former spouse’s work.

Part B (medical insurance)

Part B helps cover:

• Services from doctors and other health care providers

• Outpatient care

• Home health care

• Durable medical equipment

• Some preventive services

Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B. The exact premium depends on your income level. 

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Parts C and D

Private companies run Parts C and D. The federal government approves each plan. Costs and coverage types vary by provider.

Part C (Medicare Advantage)

Part C is known as Medicare Advantage. It’s an alternative to Parts A and B that bundles several coverage types, including Parts A, B, and usually D. It may also include:

• Vision

• Hearing

• Dental insurance

• Flex Cards for Groceries

• Gym Memberships

You must sign up for Part A or Part B before enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Part D (prescription drug coverage)

Part D helps cover prescription drug costs.

You must sign up for Part A or Part B before enrolling in Part D.

Get started with Parts C and D

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Click the link below to look at C and D plans in your area!

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