Demystifying Medicare: Understanding Part A and Part B

Turning 65 means entering the world of Medicare and a whirlwind of information that can be confusing and overwhelming. The best place to start making informed decisions is understanding the differences between Medicare Part A and Part B. Here's a quick breakdown of the two programs to help you start your new chapter on the right foot.

Part A: Your Hospital Haven

Think of Part A as your inpatient hospital insurance.     It covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care (for short-term rehabilitation), hospice care, and some home health services. Part A helps shoulder the financial burden of these often costly medical needs.

Part B: Beyond the Hospital Walls

Part B functions as your outpatient medical insurance. It comes with a monthly premium and covers a wider range of services you might receive outside a hospital setting. This includes doctor visits, preventive screenings, some lab tests, durable medical equipment, and outpatient mental health services. Part B also covers a portion of the cost of medically necessary ambulance services.

Putting it into Practice

Imagine Mary has recently turned 65. Due to her work history, she qualifies for premium-free Part A. Mary also decides to enroll in Part B to ensure coverage for upcoming doctor visits and screenings. While Part A would cover a hospital stay if needed, Part B would help with the associated doctor fees and some medications.

Understanding Your Options: Knowledge is Power

Medicare is a program with various moving parts and options. Taking the time to learn the distinctions between Part A and Part B is a crucial first step. You can make an appointment with me for a phone consultation for in-depth information. Click on the Make an Appointment tab on the right side of the page. 

By understanding the different parts, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage and confidently navigate your golden years.