Basics – HICAP

MEDICARE BASICS

Understand your coverage. Know your options.

Start with the essentials—from the different parts of Medicare to the ways you can receive your coverage.

You do not have to figure it out alone. HICAP offers free, unbiased guidance to help you understand your choices and ask the right questions.

Free • Confidential • Unbiased

THE BUILDING BLOCKS

Each part plays a different role. Here is a quick introduction.

PART A

Helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services.

PART B

Helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, medical equipment, and many preventive services.

PART C

A private plan alternative to Original Medicare that bundles Part A, Part B, and usually Part D.

PART D

Helps pay for prescription medicines through a Medicare-approved drug plan.

PUTTING IT TOGETHER

Understanding the difference is a helpful starting point when reviewing your options.

OPTION 01

Part A + Part B

You can add a separate Part D plan for prescription drugs. Medigap is supplemental insurance that may help pay some of your share of covered costs.

OPTION 02

Part A + Part B, usually with Part D

You receive coverage through a Medicare-approved private plan. Compare each plan’s benefits, costs, and rules before choosing.

MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE

A counselor can help you understand Medicare terms, review your coverage choices, and identify information to check before making a decision.

KEEP LEARNING

Learn more about Part D and how HICAP can help you review your options.

Find coverage explanations and current cost information directly from Medicare.

HERE TO HELP

Get personal guidance from a HICAP counselor—free, confidential, and unbiased.