---
title: "Parts A, B, C, D — what each one actually does — MedAdvise Insurance Group"
description: "Medicare's alphabet, translated into plain language."
url: "https://medadviseinsurance.com/learn/medicare-parts-abcd/"
---

[Education hub](https://medadviseinsurance.com/learn/) · Basics · 6 min read

# Parts A, B, C, D — what each one actually does

Medicare's alphabet, translated into plain language.

Medicare’s parts sound complicated, but each letter answers one simple question.

## Part A — hospital

Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing after a hospital stay, hospice, and some home health care. Most people pay no premium for Part A — you earned it through payroll taxes.

## Part B — medical

Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, lab work, preventive services, and medical equipment. Part B has a monthly premium, and when you sign up matters — late enrollment can carry a lifelong penalty.

## Part C — Medicare Advantage

Not extra coverage — a different way to receive Parts A and B, through a private plan that usually bundles drug coverage and may add dental, vision, or hearing benefits. Plans use provider networks, which is why checking your doctors always comes first.

## Part D — prescription drugs

Drug coverage through private plans, either standalone (alongside Original Medicare) or built into a Medicare Advantage plan. Every plan has its own drug list and pricing tiers, so the same prescriptions can cost very differently from plan to plan.

## And “Medigap”?

Medigap (Medicare Supplement) isn’t a lettered part of Medicare — it’s private insurance that helps pay your share of costs under Original Medicare.

If you remember one thing: **A and B are the foundation; everything else is about how you fill the gaps.** Sorting out which combination fits your life is exactly what a complimentary plan review is for.

Questions about how this applies to you? Call [(253) 256-1637](tel:+12532561637) (TTY 711) — a complimentary plan review takes about 30 minutes.

## Reading is a start. Talking is faster.

Bring your questions — a complimentary review takes about 30 minutes.

[Book a Free Plan Review](https://medadviseinsurance.com/contact/) · [(253) 256-1637](tel:+12532561637)

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