If you’re turning 65 soon or just trying to understand your Medicare options, you’ve probably heard a lot of letters thrown around — A, B, C, D. It can feel like alphabet soup.
But don’t worry — it’s actually simpler than it sounds. Here’s a clear, easy-to-understand guide to what those letters really mean, and how they work together to build your Medicare coverage.
🅰 Medicare Part A – Hospital Insurance
What it covers:
● Inpatient hospital stays
● Skilled nursing facility care
● Hospice care
● Some home health care
What it costs:
● Most people don’t pay a premium — it’s free if you worked 10+ years and paid Medicare taxes.
● But there is a deductible ($1,736 in 2026) and possible daily copayments for longer hospital stays.
✅ Think of Part A as your “room and board” at the hospital.
🅱 Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance
What it covers:
● Doctor visits
● Outpatient care
● Lab tests and X-rays
● Preventive services (like screenings and vaccines)
● Durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs or walkers)
What it costs:
● A monthly premium — $202.90 in 2026 (higher if you have a higher income)
● An annual deductible ($283 in 2026)
● After the deductible, you typically pay 20% of costs (with no out-of-pocket max)
✅ Part B is what you use most often — for everything from checkups to specialists.
🅲 Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage Plans
What it is:
● Medicare Advantage is an alternative to Original Medicare, offered by private insurance companies.
● It bundles Part A + Part B, and often includes Part D (prescription drug coverage) plus extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and gym memberships.
What to know:
● Many plans have low or $0 premiums, but costs vary based on usage and networks.
● You must use the plan’s network of doctors and hospitals (HMO or PPO).
● Each plan is different — so comparing options is essential.
✅ This is Medicare “all-in-one,” and it’s growing in popularity because of the extras and affordability.
🅳 Medicare Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
What it covers:
● Prescription medications — from generics to high-cost brand-name drugs like Ozempic, Eliquis, or Mounjaro
What it costs:
● Monthly premium (varies by plan)
● Annual deductible (up to $615 in 2026)
● Copays or coinsurance depending on the tier of your medications Big change for 2026:
● Medicare Part D now includes a $2,100 out-of-pocket maximum for the year, offering major protection for those on expensive prescriptions.
✅ Whether you go with a stand-alone Part D or it’s included in an Advantage plan, reviewing your drug list annually is key.
Putting It All Together
Here’s how most people build their Medicare coverage:
| Scenario | What They Choose |
|---|---|
| Original Medicare Only | Part A + Part B (no drug or extra coverage) |
| Original Medicare + Medigap | Part A + Part B + Medigap Plan + Part D |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Includes Part A, Part B, usually Part D, and extra benefits |
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Understanding the ABCDs of Medicare is the first step — but picking the right plan for you is where it gets personal. That’s where I come in.
As a licensed, independent Medicare advisor, my role is to help you:
● Know when to enroll
● Avoid penalties and mistakes
● Choose the plan that fits your needs and budget
● Explain everything in plain language — no pressure, no gimmicks
And yes — my help is completely free to you.
Questions? Let’s Talk.
If you’re turning 65 soon or want to review your current Medicare coverage, I’m here to help. Whether it’s a quick phone call or a full plan review, we’ll get it done together — the right way.
📞 Call: 631-774-3786
🌐 Visit: mymedicaremike.com
Let me know if you’d like a PDF, graphic, or social media teaser to go along with this blog! lets add a 4 question Q and A Perfect — here’s your updated A, B, C, D of Medicare blog post with a warm and informative Q&A section added at the end. This keeps the tone light and helpful while reinforcing you as the trusted advisor Medicare beneficiaries are searching for.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Do I have to enroll in Medicare at 65?
Not always. If you’re still working and covered by a group health plan (with 20+ employees), you may be able to delay Part B without penalty. But it’s best to check first — getting this wrong could be costly.
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and a Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces your Original Medicare and usually includes extras like dental and vision. A Medigap plan works with Original Medicare to cover what Medicare doesn’t pay. The right choice depends on your doctors, travel needs, and budget.
Is Medicare free?
Part A is usually free if you’ve paid Medicare taxes for 10 years. But Part B has a monthly premium, and you may need to pay for drug coverage and a Medigap or Advantage plan depending on what you choose.
What if I take expensive medications like Ozempic or Eliquis?
In 2026, Medicare Part D includes a $2,100 out-of-pocket max, which helps control high drug costs. Plans vary by formulary, so it’s important to pick one that covers your medications affordably.
