A, B, C and D’s of Medicare

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, inpatient skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and for some conditions, home health care. Part A has a deductible that you must pay before any benefits will be paid by Medicare. You will also be responsible for a per day copay for extended hospital stays.

How much does it cost?

You don’t usually pay a monthly premium for Part A if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. If you didn’t pay enough Medicare taxes and you are age 65 or older or if you are disabled and have returned to work, you may be able to purchase Part A coverage. Contact Medicare for more information.

When to enroll

You are automatically enrolled the first day of the month you turn 65 if you get benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If you are under 65 and disabled, you will automatically be enrolled after the first day of the 25th month of your disability benefits from Social Security or RRB.