Parts A and B
Start with the foundation of Original Medicare and the kinds of care each part addresses.
Medicare 101
Medicare 101: a calm place to begin.
Use this beginner guide to understand the roles of Parts A, B, C, and D, the questions that shape a coverage review, and what to prepare next.
The short answer
How the main parts fit together
Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Part D helps cover prescription drugs. Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is a private-plan alternative that includes Part A and Part B benefits and usually Part D. Medigap is separate insurance that can help with certain out-of-pocket costs under Original Medicare.
Further reading: Medicare.gov: Parts of Medicare
Understand the essentials
Questions worth reviewing together.
Part C
Understand why Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits.
Part D
See why prescriptions and pharmacies belong in the conversation.
Supplement coverage
Learn where a separate Medicare Supplement discussion may fit.
Five things to prepare
Timing, providers, prescriptions, travel, and budget priorities create a useful starting checklist.
Common questions
Let’s clear things up.
What is the best first step for medicare 101?
Start with your goal and the facts that are most important to your situation.
Do I have to be ready to choose?
No. A first conversation can focus on education and next questions.
Can MIP review my current information?
Yes. Starting with what you already have helps keep the conversation relevant.