The ABC’s (and D’s) of Medicare

Help our patients understand the pros and cons of the different types of Medicare. Here’s a quick overview.

Original Medicare

• Includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).
• Only pays for about 80% of healthcare costs.
• Doesn’t cover every type of service.
• Doesn’t cover most dental, vision and hearing services.
• Covers only a small number of medications.
• Has no out-of-pocket limit.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

• An add-on to Original Medicare.
• Covers remaining costs once Original Medicare has paid its share.
• Only covers services Original Medicare covers.
• Doesn’t include prescription drug coverage.

Medicare Part D

• Prescription drug coverage.
• For those on Original Medicare, Part D is an add-on they purchase separately from a private insurance company. If they don’t enroll when they’re first eligible, they’ll pay a penalty if they choose to add Part D later.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

• Takes the place of Original Medicare.
• Typically combines Parts A, B and D (hospital, medical and prescription drug coverage) in one single plan.
• Plans have out-of-pocket limits, so members won’t pay over a certain amount.
• Plans often include dental, vision and hearing coverage.
• Plans can include extra perks such as fitness benefits and wellness programs.

Please remind our patients to review their Medicare coverage by December 7. They can learn more by:

• Calling (877) 642-4753 (TTY 711).
• Attending a webinar to learn about our Simplete® Riverside Medicare Advantage plans.
• Visiting this page about Medicare and this link about our Simplete plans.
• Visiting simplete.org/medicare to view plans, enroll and more.