Ever wondered what all the different parts of Medicare actually mean? There are many terms and ideas associated with Medicare that are constantly thrown around, but do you truly know what they mean? Our blog is aiming to answer some of the common and consistent Medicare questions so that you can better understand the industry, and furthermore, your coverage.

 

So let’s dive in today with the basics: defining the two primary parts of original Medicare, Part A and Part B. We’ll get into Part C & D on another day.

 

Okay, so let’s start with the more basic Medicare Part A.

 

Medicare Part A

 

This is your hospital insurance. Any inpatient hospital stays, care received in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some health care are covered under Medicare Part A. This is pretty straight forward; however, it can be more complex depending on your healthcare status and provider. Often times “under observation” can be a troublesome status for a patient covered under Medicare to have, because it can cause trouble with coverage. That’s a story for another day though, so for now, just remember that “Medicare Part A covers your stay” (in most cases).

 

Medicare Part B

 

Okay, so this is your actual health insurance coverage. This covers two types of medical services:

 

• Preventive medical services such as flu shots, illness screenings, and the like, are considered preventive services. The lines here can become a bit blurred, but essentially, any sort of screenings or lab work that is done in an attempt to prevent major illness is considered preventive. Additionally, coverage can extend to necessary durable equipment like walkers or wheelchairs, when a diagnosis requires that.
• Necessary treatment is covered when patients require treatment and care to treat conditions or illnesses. Included in this category are x-rays, lab work, outpatient services, and doctors visits that are necessary per your condition.

 

For part B, just remember it either helps prevent illness with preventive care coverage or treats an illness or condition.

 

If you don’t have a Medicare supplement plan in addition to your original Medicare coverage, then you are responsible for paying a deductible annually, as well as 20% of the Medicare-approved amount with participating providers. This 20% can really add up quickly, especially if you are being treated for a serious illness. This is why in most cases it makes sense to have a Medicare supplement plan to back up your original Medicare.

Well that in a nutshell is Medicare Part A and B. Stay tuned for more Medicare news, tips, and facts by following our blog or social channels.