Medicare Basics
May 20, 2026
Plain-language guide
Medicare basics — in plain English.
What each part is, what it pays for, and what it does not cover — without the jargon.
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The four parts of Medicare
- Part A — hospital coverage. Usually no premium if you or your spouse paid in long enough.
- Part B — outpatient and doctor coverage. Monthly premium tied to income.
- Part C — Medicare Advantage. Private plans that replace A and B and usually include extras.
- Part D — prescription drug coverage. Sold by private insurers, regulated by Medicare.
What Medicare does not cover
Common gaps:
- Most routine dental, vision, and hearing care
- Long-term custodial care
- Cosmetic procedures
- Most overseas care
Filling those gaps is the job of either a Medicare Supplement (with extras you add separately) or a Medicare Advantage plan with built-in benefits.