OVERVIEW: Medicare is the federal health insurance program for: People who are 65 or older, Certain younger people with disabilities, and People with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD). 

Part A (Hospital Insurance): Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. 

Part B (Medical Insurance): Part B covers certain doctor’s services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventative services. 

Part D (prescription drug coverage): Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs (including many recommended shots or vaccines). 

DETAILS  

Premiums: Most people don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A. Everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B. 

Original Medicare: Includes Part A & Part B, you pay a deductible at the start of the year and pay for services as you get them. Usually, users pay 20% of the cost of the Medicare-approved service, called coinsurance. 

Medicare Advantage: Medicare-approved plan from a private company that offers an alternative plan for your health and drug coverage. Some may offer extra benefits such as vision, hearing, and dental services. 

WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY MEDICARE

Some of the items and services Medicare doesn’t cover include Long-Term Care (custodial care), most dental care, eye exams, dentures, cosmetic surgery, massage therapy, routine physical exams, hearing aids and exams for fitting them, concierge care, covered items or services from an opt-out doctor.