What Is Medicare Part A?
Medicare Part A is the portion of Medicare that helps cover inpatient hospital care and related services. It’s often referred to as hospital insurance and is a foundational part of the federal Medicare program.
What Does Medicare Part A Cover?
Medicare Part A generally helps pay for:
Inpatient hospital stays
Skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay)
Hospice care for individuals with a terminal illness
Limited home health care services
Who Is Eligible?
Most people qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters) while working. Individuals under age 65 may also qualify due to certain disabilities or specific medical conditions.
What Does It Cost?
While many beneficiaries don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A, there are still out-of-pocket costs, including:
A deductible per benefit period
Daily coinsurance amounts for extended hospital or skilled nursing stays
Costs can change each year, so it’s important to review current benefit details.
What Is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B is the portion of Medicare that helps cover outpatient medical services and preventive care. Often referred to as medical insurance, Part B works alongside Part A to provide comprehensive coverage under Original Medicare.
What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
Medicare Part B generally helps pay for:
Doctor visits and outpatient services
Specialist care
Preventive services (annual wellness visits, screenings, vaccines)
Lab work and diagnostic testing (X-rays, MRIs, blood tests)
Durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment)
Outpatient mental health services
Some home health services
Part B focuses on medically necessary services and preventive care designed to diagnose, treat, and help prevent illness.
Who Is Eligible?
Most people are eligible for Medicare Part B when they turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare. Individuals under age 65 may qualify due to certain disabilities or medical conditions. Enrollment in Part B is optional, but delaying enrollment without other qualifying coverage may result in a late enrollment penalty.
What Does It Cost?
Unlike Part A, most beneficiaries pay a monthly premium for Medicare Part B. Costs typically include:
A standard monthly premium (higher-income individuals may pay more)
An annual deductible
Generally 20% coinsurance for most covered services after the deductible is met
Premiums and cost-sharing amounts can change each year.