Medicare education

Medicare Basics: How Medicare Works

Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities. Here is a plain-language overview of the parts of Medicare and the key dates to know. This page is for education only.

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The parts of Medicare

Part A — Hospital insurance

Helps cover inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and some home health care.

Part B — Medical insurance

Helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services and medical equipment.

Part C — Medicare Advantage

Another way to get your Part A and Part B benefits, through private companies approved by Medicare. Many plans also include drug coverage.

Part D — Drug coverage

Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Offered by private companies approved by Medicare.

Key enrollment periods

Initial Enrollment Period: 7 months — the 3 months before, the month of, and the 3 months after you turn 65
General Enrollment Period: January 1 – March 31, if you missed your first chance (late penalties may apply)
Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7, to make changes to Medicare health and drug plans
Medigap open enrollment: 6 months, starting the month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B

Questions about Medigap?

We help with Medicare Supplement (Medigap), dental, vision and hospital indemnity coverage. For information on all Medicare plan options, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Common questions

Medicare questions

When should I sign up for Medicare?

Most people sign up during their Initial Enrollment Period around their 65th birthday. If you or your spouse are still working and have employer coverage, you may be able to delay Part B without a penalty. Check with Social Security or Medicare for your situation.

What is the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is run by the federal government and lets you see any provider that accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and often use provider networks. Each has different costs and rules.

Does Medicare cover everything?

No. Original Medicare has deductibles and coinsurance, and it generally does not cover routine dental, vision or hearing care or long-term custodial care.

This page is for educational purposes only. Senior Life Group does not market or sell Medicare Advantage or Part D plans on this website. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. For information on all of your options, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048).

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