What is Medicare?

Answer:
Medicare

is a federal program that provides basic medical coverage to retirees over the age of 65. There are several parts of Medicare including Medicare Parts A through D. Medicare Part A covers hospital stays and certain long-term care charges. Medicare Part B is an optional coverage that covers physician services and durable medical equipment.

Medicare Part C is called the Medicare Advantage Plan, which allows patients to buy the same coverage that would be received from Parts A and B through a private insurance company.

Medicare Part D is the prescription benefit program Medicare offers. Although run with Medicare rules, Part D is run through private insurance companies.