1. Part A

Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and home health care services. Most people do not have to pay a premium for Part A coverage, as it is usually paid for through payroll taxes while you are working.

2. Part B

Part B covers medically necessary outpatient medical care, such as doctor’s visits, preventive care, and durable medical equipment. Part B also covers some home health care services and some preventive services. Part B is optional, and most people have to pay a monthly premium for this coverage.

3. Part C

Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage Plans, are offered by private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare. These plans provide all of the benefits covered under Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage and routine vision and dental services. As a result, Medicare Advantage Plans may have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare, but they may also have more limited provider networks.

4. Part D

Part D is the prescription drug coverage part of Medicare. It helps cover the cost of prescription medications not covered under Part A, or Part B. Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies that Medicare approves. You can enroll in a stand-alone Part D plan if you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) that includes prescription drug coverage.