Shelton, Connecticut & Glastonbury, Connecticut

Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 7:00 pm, Sat 8:30-2:30 Sun: Closed

The 4 Parts of Medicare – Your Complete Guide

Medicare is divided into four main parts, each serving a different role in your healthcare coverage. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right plan for your health needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Medicare Part A – Hospital Insurance

What It Covers:

Part A helps pay for medically necessary inpatient care,

including:

  • Hospital stays and surgeries

  • Skilled nursing facility care after hospitalization

  • Hospice and end-of-life care

  • Some home health services

Costs:

  • Most people pay $0 monthly premium if they or a spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.

  • Deductibles and coinsurance may apply for hospital stays.

Tips for Consumers:
Even though Part A is often premium-free, it’s important to plan for
deductibles and coinsurance, especially for extended hospital stays.

Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance

Part B focuses on outpatient care and medical services, including:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care

  • Preventive screenings (mammograms, colonoscopies, flu shots)

  • Durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen)

  • Certain home health services

Costs:

  • Standard premium in 2026: $174.70/month (higher for higher-income beneficiaries).

  • Annual deductible and coinsurance typically apply.

Tips for Consumers:
Part B is essential for routine medical care and preventive services.
Don’t skip enrollment, even if you’re still working, to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage Plans

What It Covers:
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a
private insurance alternative to Original Medicare. These plans bundle:

  • Part A (hospital)

  • Part B (medical)

  • Often Part D (prescription drugs)

  • Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, wellness programs

Costs:

  • Monthly premiums vary by plan and provider

  • Deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance may apply

  • Out-of-pocket maximums cap annual expenses

Tips for Consumers:
Medicare Advantage is a good option if you want
all-in-one coverage and extra perks beyond Original Medicare. Make sure the plan includes your preferred doctors and medications.

Medicare Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage

What It Covers:

Part D helps cover prescription medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

Costs:

  • Monthly premiums vary by plan

  • Deductibles and copayments may apply

  • Late enrollment may result in penalties if you go without coverage

Tips for Consumers:
Prescription costs can add up quickly. Even if you’re healthy now, enrolling in Part D
prevents future penalties and protects you from high medication costs.

Understanding How the Parts Work Together

  • Original Medicare: Part A + Part B

  • Add Part D for prescription coverage

  • Optional Medigap covers out-of-pocket costs

  • Medicare Advantage (Part C) can replace Original Medicare and often includes Part D

Consumer Tip: Choosing the right combination depends on your health, medications, preferred doctors, and budget. Reviewing your options every year is critical, as plans and coverage can change.

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Confused About Which Part Is Right for You?

Choosing the right combination of Medicare coverage can feel overwhelming. Each part has its role — and the right mix can protect your health, your budget, and your peace of mind.

At Retire With Medicare, we make it easy to understand your options and choose the coverage that fits your lifestyle.

Next Steps You Can Take Today:

  • Compare Medicare Plans – See how Part A, B, C, and D work together and find plans that meet your needs.Bullet List 2

  • Attend a Free Medicare Workshop – Get answers to your questions and learn strategies to save money and maximize benefits.

  • Talk to a Medicare Specialist – Personalized guidance to help you make confident choices.

Your Retirement. Your Health. Your Medicare.

Shelton, Connecticut / Glastonbury, Connecticut

Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 7:00 pm, Sat: 8:30 - 12:30 Sun: Closed

CMS Disclaimer: We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options.

© Retire with Medicare 2026. *Not affiliated with the U.S. government or federal Medicare program. All Rights Reserved.