If you’re turning 65, or if you’re over age 65 and about to retire, you may be wondering how Medicare works. 

Medicare has four parts:

Part A Helps cover hospital costs. This part is free for most and is provided by the federal government.

Part B Helps cover doctor visits and outpatient care. This part is optional and has a monthly premium.

Part C Also called Medicare Advantage, Part C combines Parts A and B, and sometimes Part D. It may include extra benefits like vision and hearing exams, gym memberships and preventive services. Part C is optional and is provided through private insurance companies.

Part D Helps cover prescription drug costs. This part is optional and costs money.

Watch the Video:  Click HERE!

Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

Part C is also called Medicare Advantage, and it combines Part A and Part B with other benefits. Why choose a Medicare Advantage plan? All your services are combined in one plan, with one ID card — and you get additional services not provided by Original Medicare (Parts A and B).Medicare Advantage plan coverage: 

• Hospital costs (Part A)

• Doctor visits and outpatient care (Part B)

• May include prescription drug coverage (Part D)

• Often includes extra benefits like vision exams, hearing exams and gym membershipsOther important things to know about Medicare Advantage plans: 

• To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, youhave to be enrolled in Original Medicare and continue to pay your Part B monthly premium

• Medicare Advantage plans are run by private insurance companies and often have an annual deductible, which helps keep monthly premiums down

• You pay copays and coinsurance only for the services you use

• To keep costs down, you may have to pick a doctor in your network. Out-of-network doctors may cost you more money

• Plans vary by state, so check out the options in your area

• You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan when you turn 65, or every year after that during the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) from October 15 to December 7

Watch the Video:  Click HERE!

Important Web Sites/Links

Medicare.gov - the official U.S. government website, has comprehensive information about Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans, Part D plans, and supplemental insurance.

Medicare Plan Finder - The Medicare Plan Finder is an online tool that enables you to compare Medicare Part D prescription drug and Medicare Advantage plans. You can compare up to three plans at one time.

Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs

MyMedicareMatters.com

Social Security Administration

Florida Department of Childen and Families (DCF)

Florida Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE)

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation - Medicare Supplement Sample Rate Search

Medicare Supplement Frequently Asked Questions 

Choosing a Medigap Policy - A Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare

Healthcare.gov  - The Health Insurance Marketplace

Medicare Publications

What is Extra Help with Your Medicare Prescription Drug Costs?

To see if you qualify, visit the Medicare section of the Social Security Administration website, at www.ssa.gov.