Medicare is divided into several different programs, or parts.
You will choose to enroll in either Original Medicare, which encompasses Parts A and B, or Medicare Part C (also called Medicare Advantage).
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A is commonly considered hospitalization insurance. Part A covers costs related to:
- Inpatient care in a hospital
- Skilled nursing home care Inpatient care in a skilled nursing facility that is not custodial or long-term
- Hospice care
- Home health care
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B provides for the rest of your non-hospitalization healthcare needs. Under Part B you receive coverage for:
- Medically necessary services such as doctor visits, tests, and other services as needed to diagnose or treat your condition
- Preventive services like routine screenings, check-ups, vaccinations, and more
- Clinical research
- Ambulance services
- Durable medical equipment
- Mental health services
- Limited outpatient prescription drugs
Together, Medicare Parts A and B are called Original Medicare.
Medicare Part C
Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage is designed to roll the coverage of Parts A and B into one plan, offered by a private health insurance company that contracts with Medicare.. By law, Advantage plans must offer at least the same coverage as Original Medicare. Other rules may differ, or the network might offer additional benefits. Many Advantage plans also include Part D, or prescription drug coverage.
Common types of Part C plans include:
- Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans
- Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans
- Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
- HMO Point of Service Plans (HMOPOS)
- Medicare Medical Savings Account (MMSA)
If you opt for a Part C plan, you will have the opportunity to compare plans, benefits, and rates each year during an Annual Election Period.
McDonnell InsuranceIndependent Health Insurance Broker
- To speak with a licensed agent, call (231) 346-7122
(TTY 711 M-F, 9am-5pm)
- AR, MI, OR, SC: 8531263 | CA: 4244790 | CO: 784135 | TN: 3002204709 | FL: W879295 | OH: 1447610 | KY: DOI-1216128
- PO Box 2007
Traverse City, MI 49685
Have You Watched Our Medicare Essentials Video Quick-Course?
This video tutorial covers the basic elements of Medicare in a format that is easy to understand and you can watch it from the comfort of home! It’s yours at no cost and no obligation, just tell us where we should send it!
Get Free Medicare Assistance
Friendly, licensed professionals are available to answer all of your questions. Call (231) 346-7122 or complete the form below and we’d be happy to reach out to you.