Part A & B of Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for eligible individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities or end-stage renal disease. Medicare is divided into several parts, with Part A and Part B being the two main components. Here's a brief overview of each:

1. Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance): Medicare Part A primarily covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. Part A is generally funded through payroll taxes paid by employees and their employers during their working years. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse have paid Medicare taxes while employed. However, there is a deductible with Part A of $1,600 plus 20% of what Medicare does not cover.

2. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance): Medicare Part B provides coverage for medically necessary services, including doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, laboratory tests, and durable medical equipment. It also covers some vaccines, ambulance services, and certain mental health services. Beneficiaries typically pay a monthly premium for this coverage. The premium amount is based on the individual's income. Along with the additional monthly premium there is a $226 deductible plus 20% of whatever Medicare does not cover. Part B is an optional coverage, if coverage is as good or better than Medicare Part B you can delay without any penalties.

It's important to note that Part A and Part B do not cover all healthcare costs. There are deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments associated with both parts, which the beneficiary is responsible for paying. To help with these costs, individuals can choose to enroll in additional coverage, such as Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap). Please contact myself at or a local professional for assistance.