Medicare is federal health insurance for people age 65 or older and for some people under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions. It is organized into parts that pay for different kinds of care.
The four parts, at a glance
Part A — Hospital insurance
Part A generally helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
Part B — Medical insurance
Part B generally helps cover doctors' services, outpatient care, preventive services, and certain medical equipment.
Part C — Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage is another way to receive Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare-approved private plan. Plans may include drug coverage and additional benefits, and rules vary.
Part D — Prescription drug coverage
Part D helps cover prescription drugs through private plans. Formularies, pharmacies, and costs can differ.
Where your decision begins
The goal is not to identify a universally “best” plan. Start with your doctors, prescriptions, preferred pharmacies, healthcare use, travel, and budget. Then compare your choices against those priorities.