Broker Check

Healthcare In Retirement

What is Medicare?

Medicare is the largest health insurance program offered by the U.S. government, serving more than 55 million people.

It’s run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Medicare is divided into 3 parts:

  • Parts A and B are Original Medicare
  • Part C is Medicare Advantage
  • Part D is prescription drug coverage

What is a Medicare Supplement?

Unlike Original Medicare, a Medicare Supplement plan is offered through private insurance companies.

Insurance companies are required to offer the same basic benefits for each lettered plan, though they do have the ability to charge different premiums.

Med Supp plans help cover the gaps in Original Medicare

  • Copayments
  • Coinsurance
  • Yearly Deductibles

What is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Unlike Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan is offered through private insurance companies.

Benefits from Medicare Advantage plans vary in several ways, although many plans have a low of zero monthly premium you are responsible for several costs.

With a Medicare Advantage plans you might be responsible for

  • Copayments & Coinsurance
  • Yearly Deductibles & out of pocket costs
  • Staying inside a network of doctors & hospitals