Medicare Part A and Part B — also known as Original Medicare — form the foundation of your Medicare coverage. If you’re turning 65 or becoming eligible due to disability, understanding how these parts work is essential to making the right decisions for your health and wallet.
What is Part A?
Medicare Part A is your hospital insurance. It helps cover:
Inpatient hospital care
Skilled nursing facility care (short-term)
Hospice care
Some home health care services
What is Part B?
Medicare Part B is your medical insurance. It covers:
Doctor visits and specialist care
Outpatient services
Preventive services (like screenings and vaccines)
Durable medical equipment (like walkers, oxygen, etc.)