Understanding Medicare
Understanding Medicare is easy once you learn some basic concepts. When you’re informed, you can make smart decisions about your healthcare and what plan is best for you. Here is some basic information to help you better understand Medicare and how it works.
Understanding Medicare Costs
Some people are enrolled automatically in Medicare Part A* (hospital insurance). If you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working for at least 10 years, you will likely not have to pay a monthly premium for this coverage. Parts B and D require premium payments regardless of work history. Part C, Medicare Advantage, plans often require a monthly premium based on the level of coverage you select. Some insurers, including Medical Mutual, also offer Medicare Advantage $0 premium plan options.
Depending on the Medicare coverage you choose, all of the costs may not be covered and you could be responsible for copays, coinsurance and deductibles. You can purchase Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) or Medicare Supplement Insurance (also known as Medigap) to help cover the expenses Medicare doesn’t.
If you and your spouse are both enrolled in Medicare, you are separately responsible to pay any premiums, deductibles and/or copays the coverage requires.
If you have questions about your Medicare eligibility or have not received an enrollment notice prior to your 65th birthday, call Social Security Administration at 800.772.1213 (TTY users call 800.325.0778) or visit the Social Security website.