The Differences Between Medicare A, B, C and D

Navigating health insurance options at different phases of life is no easy feat. Medicare has different parts, paperwork, and deadlines, so it’s no wonder many people feel overwhelmed. Choice City Health is here to assist you. We can guide you through signing up and finding the right Medicare plan in Colorado. That way you can relax and know you’re taken care of.


Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides benefits for those older than 65, under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people of all ages with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis, or a kidney transplant.


Within the broad category of Medicare, there are parts A, B, C and D. Let’s break down the differences among each part:


Medicare Part A – Hospital Insurance

Medicare Part A, or hospital insurance, includes inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay. It includes home health care services and hospice care services during the end-of-life phase. There are deductibles and out of pocket expenses associated with Medicare Part A. Most people do not pay a monthly premium for Part A


Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance

Medicare Part B, or medical insurance, covers doctor’s services, such as outpatient care, home health, and some preventative services. This part has deductibles and co-insurance and most people will have to pay a monthly premium. In 2019 the standard premium is $135.50. We are here to go over your situation and discuss Medicare premiums specifically related to you.


Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is offered by private insurance companies approved by and under contract with Medicare. It includes all services offered by Parts A and B and many times includes drug coverage (see Part D). Part C may require extra premium payment in addition to your Part B premium.


Medicare Part D – Drug Coverage

Medicare Part D, drug coverage, is offered by private companies by and under contract with Medicare. This plan is to help lower the costs of prescription medication and may help protect against high drug costs in the future. This part is available to everyone with Medicare.

If you are navigating the Medicare realm for the first time, don’t go it alone. Here at Choice City Health we can go over your questions. We don’t charge any fees and are paid directly by the insurance carriers we represent. Contact us at 970-407-9399 today.

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SNP Benefits and Features SNPs offer several features that differentiate them from standard Medicare Advantage Plans: Customized Benefits: SNPs may include services like case management, disease-specific education, and access to specialists aligned with the member’s condition. Coordinated Care: Members are typically assigned a care coordinator to help manage treatments, medications, and appointments across multiple providers. Integrated Services: Especially in D-SNPs, plans often integrate Medicare and Medicaid services, which can simplify care in some areas. Prescription Drug Coverage: All SNPs must provide Medicare Part D coverage with formularies designed to meet the medical needs of their member population. When is Enrollment for an SNP? Enrollment in an SNP can occur during standard Medicare enrollment periods: Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 to December 7 each year Open Enrollment Period (OEP): January 1 to March 31 (for those already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan) Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) may also apply. For example, individuals who newly qualify for Medicaid or are diagnosed with a chronic condition that makes them eligible for a C-SNP may be able to join an SNP outside of the standard periods. Not all SNPs are available in every region. Plan offerings vary by county and state, and each plan has its own list of covered services and provider networks. It is important to compare available plans to determine whether a specific SNP meets your healthcare needs and eligibility. Contact one of our licensed insurance agents today for more information about SNPs or to see if a SNP could benefit you or any questions regarding Medicare Advantage Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 7 organizations that offer 58 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov , 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
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