Medicare, A Simple Explanation
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: July 16, 2021
Social Security and Medicare are both programs that are household names, but do you know the true difference? Both programs help safeguard millions of Americans as well as improve the quality of life for their family and friends. While Social Security offers retirement, disability, and survivors benefits, Medicare provides health insurance.
Medicare is our country’s health insurance program for people age 65 or older and younger people receiving Social Security disability benefits. The program helps with the cost of health care, but it doesn’t cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care.
When you first enroll in Medicare and during certain times of the year, you can choose how you get your Medicare coverage. There are 2 main ways to get Medicare:
Original Medicare
Original Medicare includes Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). If you want drug coverage, you can join a separate Part D plan. To help pay your out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare (like your deductible and 20% coinsurance), you can also shop for and buy supplemental coverage. Examples include coverage from a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy, or from a former employer or union.
Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C)
Medicare Advantage is an “all in one” alternative to Original Medicare. These “bundled” plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D. Part C plans may have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare. They also may offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover — like vision, hearing, dental, and more.
If you can’t afford to pay your Medicare premiums and other medical costs, you may be able to get help from your state. States offer programs for people eligible for or entitled to Medicare who have low income. Some programs may pay for Medicare premiums and some pay Medicare deductibles and coinsurance. To qualify, you must have limited income and resources.
You can learn more about Medicare, including how to apply for Medicare and get a replacement Medicare card on our website.
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Darlynda Bogle, Assistant Deputy Commissioner
Darlynda Bogle, Assistant Deputy Commissioner
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Richard M.
I need to sign up for Plan D. I already have Plans A and B. What do I do?
Luis A.
Hi Richard. For information on Medicare Part D, please visit Medicare’s internet page and click on the section titled “Drug Coverage (Part D).” Once there, visit the section titled, “Find health & drug plans.” On that page, you can review, compare, and join a 2019 plan for Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage). We hope this helps.
Suraj R.
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Brad E.
I didn’t know that Part C medicare plans have the potential to be lower in out of pocket costs than original Medicare plans. My mother is looking to enroll in Medicare so that she can be protected for a lower cost because she is retired and doesn’t have much monthly income. I will be sure to keep this in mind as we look for an agent to help us get the most cost-effective coverage for her. https://financialgrade.com/medicare-general-agency-in-la-mesa-ca/
Smith M.
You should know how to protect your home and medicare using home insurance before buying or renting a new apartment, otherwise unexpected damages will result in huge loss.
M
I have a huge issue. I am on Medicare part a, b and d, but they are over charging for everything because they base irma and magi from 2 years ago and I don’t earn anywhere near that. As a result I am less likely to use any of it unless it’s last resort emergency. For awhile I can afford it, but not long term. I have daily expenses too. I paid 1300 for a quarter only to receive yet another bill for 243. If I needed meds, I wouldn’t be able to do that either because the deductible is too high so I am paying for part d even though I don’t need it to avoid a fine. I feel you need to work on the glitches and stop over charging.
Diane G.
I need to know if I am getting my hours for All Valley Home Care
Jeffery b.
I lost my walet and need new card
Ann C.
Hi, Jeffery. We are sorry to hear that. First, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing the Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card please visit our Social Security Number and Card page. We hope this helps.
datadriller01
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Nathan L.
I need My MEDICARE PART A Card , and I am NOTIFYING YOU THAT I HAVE A (MEDICARE) worker’s compensation set aside MEDICARE account!!!
I need coordination of BENEFITS,
Nathan J Lee, I need my Medicare Part A Card Also
Ann C.
Hi, Nathan. Good news! If you need a replacement Medicare card or immediate proof that you have Medicare, you can take care of both online by setting up a personal my Social Security account. For further assistance with specific concerns, please call us at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait if you call later in the day. You can also contact your local Social Security office. We hope this helps.
virginia a.
my husband and I are 70 and 72 yrs old we want to know can we get part D the our benefits that we already have, we have a and b now, but really can’t afford this coverage thru other ins companies.
thank you
virginia hubler