Understanding Medicare
Learn how Medicare Parts A, B, C and D work and what each covers.
How Medicare works
Medicare is a government health insurance program for Americans who are 65 or older and younger people who have certain disabilities and receive Social Security benefits.
Medicare facts to know
- You can sign up for Medicare at age 65, even if you’re not ready to retire
- Medicare pays for approximately 80% of medical expenses and covers only certain types of care. Additional Medicare coverage from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota can help pay some of your additional healthcare costs.
- You may pay a penalty if you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B and Part D coverage when you first become eligible
The four parts of Medicare
Medicare is made up of four parts: A, B, C and D. Each part provides partial coverage to help pay for your health care expenses.
Part A
(Hospital coverage)
Original Medicare
Partial coverage for:
- Inpatient hospital stay
- Skilled nursing care
- Hospice
- Home care
Part B
(Medical coverage)
Original Medicare
Partial coverage for:
- Doctors visits
- Surgery
- Lab tests
- Medical equipment
- Preventive exams
Part C
Private insurers and health plans
Similar to Parts A & B with predictable out-of-pocket costs and more coverage.
Often fully covers:
- Wellness services
- Vision exams
- Hearing exams
Often partially covers:
- Eye glasses
- Hearing aids
Part D
Private insurers and health plans
Helps with the cost of prescription drugs not covered by Original Medicare.
Covers some:
- Prescription drugs
Medicare doesn't have to be hard
Our Blue Cross Advisors are here to:
- Help you learn about Medicare basics and our plans
- Assist you in finding a plan that meets your needs
- Help you enroll in a plan
Get your free Medicare Step-by-Step Guide
Learn the essentials of Medicare
Use this guide to make understanding Medicare easier. It covers the essentials you'll need to know, like the four parts of Medicare, when to enroll and how to avoid penalties.
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