What is Medicare?

Medicare is a fee-for-service health care program for seniors and people with disabilities, in which the government pays health care providers directly for services that fall under Parts A and B of Medicare benefits (see below). However, if you are looking for more coverage than Original Medicare, you can choose a Medicare Advantage Plan in order to receive all your Part A and Part B benefits.

Medicare is divided into four categories. This allows you to customize your personal coverage when shopping for a comprehensive policy.

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing home facility, hospice care, and some home health care.
• Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
• Part C: Combines Parts A and B and often part D as well.
• Part D: Offers prescription drug coverage.

What Medicare options are available?

Original Medicare offers coverage for services and supplies that are considered to be medically necessary, such as doctor visits, lab tests and wheelchairs. There are two main ways to get Medicare.

1. Original Medicare with a Part D Prescription Drug Plan. Decide if you would also like Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, to fill the "gaps" (deductibles, copays, and coinsurance) in Original Medicare.

2. A Medicare Advantage Plan, also known as Part C, to provide all of your Part A and Part B Medicare benefits through a private company contracted with Medicare. Most Medicare Advantage Plans offer prescription drug coverage as well.

Why do you need Medicare?

Seniors are in the most need of health care, but once retired, monthly premiums can become hard to maintain. Enrolling in the Medicare program allows you to get the care you need for a minimal charge.

Contact us today to learn more about coverage options. We are happy to work with you to determine which Medicare options work best for you.