Medicare Part A helps cover hospital-related expenses. This includes inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and limited home health care. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. You may still have deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments depending on the service.

Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, lab tests, x-rays, outpatient surgeries, and medically necessary services or equipment like wheelchairs and walkers. It also includes preventive care like flu shots and cancer screenings. Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B, even if they’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is a type of health plan offered by private insurance companies that provides an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications. It’s optional but recommended if you take medications regularly. If you delay enrollment, you may face a late penalty. Coverage is available through stand-alone Part D plans or Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage.