Medicare Part A mainly covers inpatient hospital care, including stays in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or hospice. It helps pay for things like room and board, nursing care, and other related services. For example, if you have a major surgery and need to stay in the hospital for a few days, Medicare Part A will typically cover a significant portion of the costs. However, there are some deductibles and coinsurance requirements that you need to be aware of.

Medicare Part B focuses on outpatient services. This includes doctor visits, preventive care, and medical supplies. It's an important part of Medicare as it allows you to see your primary care physician regularly and get the necessary screenings and tests to catch any health issues early. For instance, if you need a routine physical exam or a mammogram, Medicare Part B will cover a portion of the cost, depending on the specific services and your Medicare plan.

Medicare Part D is all about prescription drugs. With the rising cost of medications, having coverage for your prescriptions is essential. Medicare Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans vary in terms of the drugs they cover and the costs involved. It's important to carefully compare different Part D plans to find the one that best meets your specific drug needs and budget.

In addition to the basic parts of Medicare, there are also Medicare Advantage plans. These are offered by private insurance companies and combine the benefits of Parts A, B, and sometimes D. Medicare Advantage plans often include additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing care. But it's important to understand the differences between these plans and traditional Medicare to make an informed decision about which option is right for you.