Medicare Parts Explained

Parts A, B, C, D and MEDIGAP, decoded. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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Quick answer

Medicare has four parts: Part A covers hospital care, Part B covers medical and outpatient care, Part C (Medicare Advantage) bundles A, B, and usually D through private plans, and Part D covers prescription drugs. Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) is separate and fills Original Medicare's gaps.

The Medicare alphabet confuses everyone at first. Here is each part in one clear sentence, then a bit more.

What does each Medicare part do?

Part A is hospital insurance: inpatient stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health. Part B is medical insurance: doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and equipment. Parts A and B together are Original Medicare. Part C, or Medicare Advantage, is a private plan that bundles A and B and usually D into one package, often with extras. Part D is standalone prescription drug coverage. Separately, Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) plans help pay Original Medicare's out-of-pocket costs. Understanding these roles is the first step to choosing well. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for a personalized walkthrough.

How do the parts work together?

You cannot mix every part freely. The two main combinations are: Original Medicare (A and B) plus a Part D plan plus a MEDIGAP supplement, or a single Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan that usually includes drug coverage. You cannot have both a MEDIGAP plan and Medicare Advantage at the same time. Choosing the right combination depends on your health, doctors, prescriptions, and budget. Getting it right at the start matters, because switching later can involve medical underwriting. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can map the combination that fits you.

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Frequently asked questions

What are Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D?+

Part A is hospital insurance, Part B is medical insurance, Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a private bundle of A, B, and usually D, and Part D is prescription drug coverage. Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) plans are separate and help pay Original Medicare's costs.

What is the difference between Part C and MEDIGAP?+

Part C (Medicare Advantage) replaces Original Medicare with a private bundled plan using networks. MEDIGAP works alongside Original Medicare to pay its deductibles and coinsurance. You cannot have both at once. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to decide which path fits you.

Which Medicare parts do I need?+

Most people need Part A and Part B at minimum. From there you add Part D for drugs and either a MEDIGAP supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan. The right mix depends on your situation. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can recommend the parts you need.

Is MEDIGAP a part of Medicare?+

MEDIGAP is not a lettered part of Medicare; it is private Medicare Supplement insurance that works with Original Medicare to cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and the 20% coinsurance. It is standardized by the government. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to compare MEDIGAP plans.

Do I need Part D if I do not take medications?+

It is wise to enroll in Part D when first eligible even if you take no drugs, because delaying without other creditable coverage triggers a permanent late penalty. A low-cost plan avoids future penalties. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to find an affordable Part D option.

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