The four parts
Medicare is federal health insurance, generally for people 65 and older and some younger people with qualifying disabilities or conditions.
| Part | What it does |
|---|---|
| Part A | Helps cover inpatient hospital care, eligible skilled nursing care, hospice and some home health care. |
| Part B | Helps cover doctor services, outpatient care, medical equipment and preventive services. |
| Part C | Medicare Advantage: a private-plan way to receive Part A and Part B benefits, usually including Part D. |
| Part D | Prescription drug coverage, available separately or through many Medicare Advantage plans. |
Two coverage paths
Original Medicare consists of Parts A and B. You can add a separate Part D plan and may consider supplemental coverage. Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through an approved private plan.
These paths have different rules and costs. Our coverage comparison guide helps you organize the questions.
Where Medigap fits
Medicare Supplement Insurance, called Medigap, helps pay certain costs left by Original Medicare. It is not the same as Medicare Advantage. Ask about enrollment protections and state rules before assuming you can purchase a policy later.
Make your next question specific
Choose one question to start with: When do I enroll? Can I keep my doctor? How do my prescriptions fit? Write it down, then use the comparison checklist to build from there.
You can get official information at Medicare.gov. For help signing up for Medicare, visit Social Security.
Sources & further reading
Parts of Medicare ↗Sources checked October 14, 2026. Check current official guidance and your plan documents before acting.