Understanding Medicare And Its Parts

The Types Of Medicare

 

If you are new to Medicare, this information explains the four parts of Medicare and what they cover. You can also learn more about Medicare enrollment, costs, and your coverage options.

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New To Medicare?

Medicare is a health insurance program from the federal government, for people 65 or older and for younger individuals living with certain disabilities or health conditions. 

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) Enrollment

 

 

Automatic Enrollment - You are receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before your 65th birthday month.

 

 

Enroll at SocialSecurity.gov - You are not receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before your 65th birthday month.

 

After you sign up for Original Medicare, you can add a Part C or D plan through a private insurance company like Anthem.

What Are The Four Parts Of Medicare? 

 

Original Medicare has two parts: Part A covers hospital care, and Part B covers doctor and outpatient care. However, many people find they need more coverage than what Original Medicare offers. 

 

For example, you might want coverage for prescription drugs, dental, and vision. This is where Medicare Parts C and D come in.

What Is Medicare Part A?

Part A covers hospitalization, home care, and inpatient services.

Learn more about Part A

What Is Medicare Part B?

Part B covers outpatient and preventive care, doctor visits, and medical tests.

Learn more about Part B

What Is Medicare Part C?

Decide if a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.

Learn more about Part C

What Is Medicare Part D?

Part D covers prescription drugs, which aren't covered by Original Medicare.

Learn more about Part D

Turning 65 And Signing Up for Medicare

If you are turning 65 soon, happy early birthday to you! Here is some information about what it means for your healthcare coverage when you hit this important milestone. It includes when and how you can sign up for Medicare, and how much it’s going to cost.

Preparing To Turn 65

Enrolling In Medicare

Enrolling in a Medicare plan from Anthem to replace or enhance your current insurance has advantages. If you want to sign up for one, there are certain times each year when you can add, switch, or drop coverage.

Next Guide: Enrolling in Medicare

  

Read Our Other Medicare Articles

What Does Medicare Cover?

Get all the details on what is and isn't covered by Medicare.
Find out what Medicare covers

What Is Medicare Part A?

Part A covers hospitalization, home care, and inpatient services.
Learn more about Part A

What is Medicare Part B?

Part B covers outpatient and preventive care, doctor visits, and medical tests.
Learn more about Part B

What Is Medicare Part C?

Decide if a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.
Learn more about Part C

What is Medicare Part D?

Part D covers prescription drugs, which aren't covered by Original Medicare.
Learn more about Part D

Signing up for Medicare

Find out how to enroll in Medicare or change your plan.
Learn about signing up for Medicare

Why Choose Anthem?

We're here to help make your Medicare decision simple and stress-free.
Find out how we can help

Get the facts on Medicare vs Medicaid

Learn more about these programs and who qualifies for each.
Find out if you qualify

What Is Medicare?

Explore the four types of Medicare and what's covered by each.
Understand Medicare

Turning 65

Turning 65 soon? Find out what you need to know for enrolling in Medicare.
Find out when to sign up

Medicare Eligibility

Find out who qualifies for Medicare and when you're eligible to sign up.
Find out if you qualify

Ready to Shop Our Medicare Plans?

Our tools help you search for Medicare plans based on what’s important to you. You can save your favorites and come back during one of the enrollment periods to apply.

Explore Anthem Medicare Plans

Anthem Blue Cross is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company is an LPPO plan with a Medicare contract. Anthem Blue Cross is an HMO SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the California Medicaid program. Enrollment in Anthem Blue Cross, Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company depends on contract renewal.