What are the different parts of Medicare?

Medicare is divided into several parts designed to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage. The main parts include: 1. Medicare Part A: Also known as hospital insurance, it covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, and some home health services. 2. Medicare Part B: Often referred to as medical insurance, it covers outpatient services and preventive care, such as doctor visits, medical equipment, and preventive screenings. 3. Medicare Part C: Also known as Medicare Advantage, it offers an alternative to Original Medicare and combines the benefits of Parts A, B, and sometimes D, provided by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. 4. Medicare Part D: Prescription drug coverage, offered through private insurance companies, helps pay for the cost of prescription medications. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) provides coverage for hospital and medical needs, while Part C and Part D are additional optional plans that provide extra benefits. Understanding these parts can help beneficiaries choose the best coverage for their healthcare needs.