Let's break down the basics of Medicare.

Learn the ABCs and Ds of Medicare Advantage

Original Medicare (Parts A and B)

Original Medicare is coverage managed by the federal government. They pay a share of the cost and you pay the remaining balance. Medicare Part A provides hospital insurance including inpatient care in hospitals, hospice care, home health care, and care provided in a skilled nursing facility (if you meet certain requirements). Medicare Part B provides medical insurance including doctor visits, procedures that don’t require an overnight hospital stay, and some preventive care.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) = Medicare A, B, and D

Many people find that Original Medicare doesn’t provide enough coverage and choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, combines Medicare Part A, Part B, and often Part D (drug coverage). Mass General Brigham Health Plan has Medicare Advantage plans starting at $0 monthly premium that include additional coverage not covered by Original Medicare.

Download your Medicare Basics guide

Our Medicare Basics guide is a helpful tool to refer back to as you move forward and review your Medicare plan options.