What Are the Parts of Medicare? A, B, C, and D Explained
Medicare has four parts: Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage — an alternative way to get A and B benefits through private insurers), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need all four parts?
- Most people need at least Part A and Part B. Part D is important for prescription drug coverage. Part C is an alternative to Original Medicare, not additional coverage.
- Is Medicare Advantage the same as a supplement?
- No. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works with Original Medicare to help cover costs that Parts A and B don't.
- Can I have Part C and Part D separately?
- Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D. If you have Original Medicare, you can add a standalone Part D plan separately.