Video: Guide to Medicare Parts A and B

Video Transcript

Narrator: Sure, you know Medicare has a lot of moving parts but don't worry, right now we're only going to talk about two of them: parts A and B. One way to think about parts A and B is that they are original Medicare. You know, brought to you by the Federal Government.

And for most people you're eligible for parts A and B when you turn 65. Part A, sometimes called Hospital Insurance, can help pay for things like overnight hospital stays including your room, tests, doctor fees and yes, food. Hey, you’ve got to eat, right?

If you've paid into Social Security for ten years, Part A comes with no monthly premium: zip, zero, nothing. And you're automatically enrolled. Otherwise, you have to sign up to get the benefits and you may have to pay a monthly premium.

Part B, sometimes called Medical Insurance, helps pay for doctor visits, outpatient care and more. Things like mammograms, diabetes and prostate screenings are included. Plus you get coverage for X-rays, lab tests and other medical services like that.

Most people have to sign up for Part B and it comes with a monthly premium. But to make it easy, you can have your premium deducted from your Social Security check each month.

Keep in mind Medicare doesn't pay for all costs that come with your Part A and B benefits. You may have to pay a deductible, co-pay, or co-insurance for the costs not covered.

There it is, a look at Medicare parts A and B. Still want to know more? Go to medicare.gov or check the other videos in this series at medicaremadeclear.com.