Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those age 65 and older as well as for some younger people with disabilities. It is divided into four parts that offer different types of coverage:

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Part A: Hospital Insurance Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and home health care. It is generally considered the foundation of Medicare coverage and is premium-free for most individuals.

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Part B: Medical Insurance Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and medical supplies. It also covers some preventative services, such as vaccinations and screenings. This coverage is optional, and individuals who choose to enroll in Part B must pay a monthly premium.

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Part C: Medicare Advantage Part C is an alternative to original Medicare (Parts A and B). It is a private health insurance plan that replaces original Medicare and offers additional benefits, such as coverage for vision, hearing, and dental care. Part C plans are offered by private insurance companies, and individuals who enroll in one must still pay for Part B coverage.

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Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage Part D covers prescription drugs and is offered by private insurance companies. Individuals who choose to enroll in Part D must pay a monthly premium, and the cost of coverage may vary depending on the individual's specific plan and the drugs they require.

It's important to understand the different options available with Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D so that you can make an informed decision about your health care coverage.