What do I need to know about Medicare Parts A & B?

Page last updated on: 4/10/25

Lesson 1 | Medicare Parts A & B

Lesson 2 | Medicare Parts C & D and Medigap

Lesson 3 | Coverage types

Extra credit

Lesson 1

Medicare Parts A and B are "Original Medicare." You get them through the federal government.

Video transcript

Medicare Part A = Hospital care

  • Medicare Part A covers most hospital costs after you pay the first $1,676 (your "Part A deductible")
  • At age 65, most people will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A
  • Most people don't pay a monthly Part A premium because they paid for it through their payroll deductions

Medicare Part B = Medical services

  • Medicare Part B covers 80% of the cost of doctor visits and everyday medical services after you pay the first $257 (your "Part B deductible")
  • You should sign up for Part B as soon as you're eligible, or you could pay penalties later
  • You'll also have a Part B premium to pay every month. The standard Part B premium amount is $185 (or higher, depending on your income).

Test yourself

Test yourself transcript

Ready to move on to lesson 2?

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Extra credit articles

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Priority Health provides a quick overview of all your Medicare health insurance options at a glance. View a summary of the costs and benefits here.

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What is Medicare Part B anyways? Priority Health explains what Medicare Part B covers, if you even need it, how to apply for it and how to avoid penalties.

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Ready to enroll? Priority Health makes it easy for you to find out when to apply for Medicare and if you're eligible to apply for Medicare insurance plans.

Y0056_400040062506_M_2025_B Last updated 01152025