Medicare Basics: Understanding Parts A, B, C, and D
Published: March 14, 2025 | Last updated: October 23, 2026
In short: Medicare has four parts. Part A covers hospital stays. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. Part C (Medicare Advantage) is an all-in-one alternative from private insurers that combines Parts A and B, and often Part D. Part D covers prescription drugs. Parts A and B together are called Original Medicare.
If you're approaching the age of 65 or are newly eligible for Medicare, understanding the basics of the program is essential for making informed decisions about your health care coverage. At Lourie Life & Health, we’re here to simplify Medicare and guide you through the process so you can feel confident about your insurance decision. Here’s a short and sweet breakdown of the four basic parts of Medicare: A, B, C, and D.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program mainly for those aged 65 and older, and in some cases, younger individuals with disabilities may qualify. It helps cover hospital care, medical services, and prescription drugs. Medicare is divided into four parts, each offering different coverage, so let’s break it down…
The Four Parts of Medicare
Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance
Part A covers needs such as inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and some home health care. For most people, there’s no monthly premium if you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes.
Coverage includes:
Hospital stays
Skilled nursing care (short-term)
Hospice and home health care
Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance
Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services like vaccinations and screenings. Unlike Part A, Part B requires a monthly premium, which will depend on your income.
Coverage includes:
Doctor visits
Outpatient services
Preventive care (e.g., vaccines, screenings)
Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage
Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to “Traditional” Medicare. These plans combine Parts A and B, and often include additional benefits like vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage.
Coverage includes:
All services in Part A and B
May offer additional benefits (vision, dental, hearing)
Often includes Part D (prescription drugs)
Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage
Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications and can vary in terms of which medications they cover and their costs.
Coverage includes:
Prescription drugs (both generic and brand-name)
Should I Add a Medicare Supplement or Choose Medicare Advantage?
While Parts A, B, and D provide comprehensive coverage, some people opt to enhance their plans. Here are two options:
Medicare Supplement (Medigap Insurance): Works with Original Medicare (Parts A and B) to cover additional costs like co-pays and deductibles.
Medicare Advantage (Part C): Offers an alternative to Original Medicare and often includes extra benefits, a maximum out of pocket, and will be network based.
How Do I Choose the Right Medicare Plan?
Selecting the right plan depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences:
Health Needs: Do you need frequent medical visits or prescription drugs? Looking for extra benefits like vision or dental?
Budget: What are your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs?
Doctors and Hospitals: Are you okay with a network, or do you prefer more flexibility?
Need Help Navigating Medicare?
At Lourie Life & Health, we’re passionate about making Medicare simple. Call us at (803) 256-2067 to speak with one of our Medicare experts who can help you find the best plan for your needs.
Want more details? Check out our YouTube channel for a full breakdown of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, and take the first step toward choosing the best Medicare plan for you.
Understanding the basics of Medicare is a great first step toward making confident decisions about your health care. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to guide you through it!
Watch our YouTube video here to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhz3lbKHacEFrequently Asked Questions
What is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical), run by the federal government.
Is Medicare Part A free?
For most people, yes. If you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for about 10 years, you won't pay a monthly Part A premium.
Do I have to pay for Part B?
Yes. Part B has a monthly premium, and higher-income households pay more.
Do I need Part D if I don't take prescriptions?
It's often still a good idea. If you go without drug coverage when you're first eligible and enroll later, you may pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have it.
Does Medicare cover dental and vision?
Original Medicare covers very little routine dental or vision care. Many Medicare Advantage plans include these benefits, or you can add a separate dental and vision plan.
Does it cost anything to get help understanding Medicare?
No. Lourie Life & Health's service is at no cost to you.
New to Medicare? Our local South Carolina agents explain your options in plain language. Call (803) 256-2067 (TTY 711) or visit us in Columbia, Greenville, or Myrtle Beach.
Want the full picture? Download our free Medicare Guidebook.