Understanding Medicare And Its Parts
The Types Of Medicare
If you are new to Medicare, this information explains the four parts of Medicare and what they cover. You can also learn more about Medicare enrollment, costs, and your coverage options.
New To Medicare?
Medicare is a health insurance program from the federal government, for people 65 or older and for younger individuals living with certain disabilities or health conditions.
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) Enrollment
Automatic Enrollment - You are receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before your 65th birthday month.
Enroll at SocialSecurity.gov - You are not receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before your 65th birthday month.
After you sign up for Original Medicare, you can add a Part C or D plan through a private insurance company like Empire.
What Are The Four Parts Of Medicare?
Original Medicare has two parts: Part A covers hospital care, and Part B covers doctor and outpatient care. However, many people find they need more coverage than what Original Medicare offers.
For example, you might want coverage for prescription drugs, dental, and vision. This is where Medicare Parts C and D come in.
What Is Medicare Part A?
Part A covers hospitalization, home care, and inpatient services.
What Is Medicare Part B?
Part B covers outpatient and preventive care, doctor visits, and medical tests.
What Is Medicare Part C?
Decide if a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.
What Is Medicare Part D?
Part D covers prescription drugs, which aren't covered by Original Medicare.
Turning 65 And Signing Up for Medicare
If you are turning 65 soon, happy early birthday to you! Here is some information about what it means for your healthcare coverage when you hit this important milestone. It includes when and how you can sign up for Medicare, and how much it’s going to cost.
Enrolling In Medicare
Enrolling in a Medicare plan from Empire to replace or enhance your current insurance has advantages. If you want to sign up for one, there are certain times each year when you can add, switch, or drop coverage.
Other Articles From "A Guide To Understanding Medicare Part D"
What Is Medicare Part A?
What is Medicare Part B
We're here to help make your Medicare decision simple and stress-free.
What is Medicare Part C and What Does it Cover?
Decide if a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.
What is Medicare Part D
Part D covers prescription drugs, which aren't covered by Original Medicare.
How to Sign Up for Medicare
Find out how to enroll in Medicare or change your plan.
Difference between Medicare & Medicaid
Consider which option best meets your health needs and budget.
Ready to Shop Our Medicare Plans?
Our tools help you search for Medicare plans based on what’s important to you. You can save your favorites and come back during one of the enrollment periods to apply.
Empire BlueCross BlueShield is a Medicare Advantage plan with a Medicare contract. Empire BlueCross BlueShield is a SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in Empire BlueCross BlueShield depends on contract renewal.