What Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and certain younger people with disabilities. Here's a clear breakdown of what each part covers.
Medicare Part A — Hospital Insurance
Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay), hospice care, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Medicare Part B — Medical Insurance
Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and some home health services. The standard Part B premium in 2025 is $185/month (higher for higher-income beneficiaries). Part B has a $257 annual deductible and covers 80% of approved costs after the deductible.
Medicare Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage
Part D is optional prescription drug coverage offered through private insurance companies. Premiums, deductibles, and copays vary by plan. It's important to enroll when you're first eligible to avoid a late enrollment penalty.
What Original Medicare Does NOT Cover
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover most dental care, vision, hearing aids, long-term care, or routine foot care. It also leaves you responsible for 20% of most medical costs with no out-of-pocket maximum. Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plans can help fill these gaps.
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