Medicare Lingo

Article submitted by Craig N. Anderson, LUTCF President of Anderson Benefits, Inc. He can be reached at 801 363 9575.

Medicare is a government health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older. It offers several different coverage's and comes with a lingo that can be confusing. The following is a brief summary of Medicare's most common lingo:

Part A (Hospital Insurance)
This provides coverage for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing and hospice.

Part B (Medical Insurance)
Covers doctor services, outpatient care and limited preventive services.

Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans)
Medical coverage that is provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies.

Part D (Drug Plan)
Prescription drug plans that are run by Medicare-approved private insurance companies.

Medicare Supplement
There are 12 standardized plans that are provided by private insurance companies to fill the "gaps" in Medicare's Part A and B coverage's.

Many people find it helpful to have an Insurance Broker or Agent to help them select their best option. The best news is that there is generally no cost for this service. Also, additional information can be found at www.medicare.gov or toll free 800 633 4227.