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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surbhi n.
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John H.
I am trying to find the definition of “creditable coverage” through an employer. I can’t find this at the Medicare site and they refer me to the SSA regarding enrollment.
Ann C.
Hi, John. For more information about creditable coverage, visit Medicare’s website here. We hope this helps.
Angela G.
I am interested in one of your supplemental insurance, Medigap, Part F or Part G but I am unable to find any information on your website! Please send information. I’ve been wanting supplemental coverage for several years and just never asked about it. Please help.
Ann C.
Hi, Angela. For more information about Medicare, visit here. You may also wish to contact your local Medicare SHIP (State Health Insurance Program Coordinator) to discuss your options. We hope this helps.
Vin H.
Retired, I participate in Humana Medicare Advantage (PPO) program, while $144, is deducted out of my SSA Benefits’s every month.
Is this correct? Should I be paying twice on my health care?
Vin H.
Retired, I participate in Humana Medicare Advantage (PPO) program. $144, is deducted out of my SSA Benefits’s every month.
Is this right< should paying twice on my health care?
Ann C.
Hi, Vin. For your security, we do not have access to private information in this venue. We ask that members in our Blog community work with our offices with specific questions. You can call us at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., for assistance. 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.
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Christine H.
Recent notifications were sent to Medicare recipients regarding part D drug deductions from their social security. What do these mean when they are covered by Medicare Advantage Part C?
Ann C.
Hi, Christine. Unfortunately, your question is a bit more complex than we can handle in this forum. For your security, we do not have access to information about your account in this venue. To get additional information on Medicare benefits, check out http://www.medicare.gov/. You may also wish to contact your local Medicare SHIP (State Health Insurance Program Coordinator) to discuss your concerns. Thanks.
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