Whether your 65th birthday is on the horizon or decades away, understanding the different parts of Medicare is critical, as this government-sponsored program may play a role in your future health care decisions.
Know your Mediare A, B, C, & Ds
Parts A & B: Original Medicare. There are two components. In general, Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility costs, hospice, lab tests, surgery, and some home health care services. One thing to keep in mind is that, while very few beneficiaries must pay Part A premiums out of pocket, annually adjusted standard deductibles still apply.1,2
Part B covers physicians’ fees, outpatient hospital care, certain home health services, durable medical equipment, and other offerings not covered by Medicare Part A.3 Part B does come with some costs, however, which are adjusted annually. The premiums vary, according to the Medicare recipient’s income level, but the standard monthly premium amount is $144.60 for 2020, and the current yearly deductible is $198.1
Part C: Medicare Advantage plans. Sometimes called “Medicare Part C,” Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are often viewed as an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. MA plans are offered by private companies approved by the federal government. Although these plans come with standardized minimum coverage, the amount of additional protection offered can differ drastically from one person to the next. This is due to unique provider networks, premiums, copays, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket spending limits. In other words, comparing prices and services offered from different vendors may be the best way to find a Medicare Advantage plan that works for you.3
[Info about supplements here]
Part D: Prescription drug plans. While Medicare Advantage plans often offer prescription drug coverage, insurers also sell federally standardized Medicare Part D plans as a standalone product to those with Medicare Part A and/or Part B. Every Part D plan has its own list (i.e., a “formulary”) of covered medications. Visit Medicare.gov to explore the formulary of approved drugs for your Part D plan as well as their prices, organized by tier.
Looking for more information?
Coleman Kelly is a licensed and independent agent (not affiliated with any government agency) who is able to review the different Medicare options available to you, including:
- Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans
- Medicare Supplements
- Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) Plans
- Review your existing plan
- Answer any questions regarding terminology or definitions related to Medicare
Coleman has agreed to meet in-person, over the phone, or on a Zoom meeting, with any clients who would like to participate. He can even complete the enrollment process with you.
To schedule your time with Coleman, please contact our office at: 651-388-9594 or you can also email Coleman directly: ckelly@discoveryfinancial.com. We are excited to offer this beneficial service.
1. CMS.gov, November 8, 2019
2. Medicare.gov, 2020
3. Medicare.gov, 2020
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