Medicare, from the ground up.
A plain-language guide to the parts of Medicare, the enrollment periods that matter, and the terms you’ll hear along the way — so the choices ahead feel a lot less confusing.
The four parts of Medicare
Part A — Hospital
Helps cover inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and some home health care.
Part B — Medical
Helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
Part C — Advantage
An all-in-one alternative from private carriers that bundles Parts A and B, often with drug coverage and extras.
Part D — Drugs
Prescription drug coverage, available standalone or built into many Medicare Advantage plans.
Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
Enrollment periods to know
| Period | When | What it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Enrollment Period | October 15 – December 7 | Review and change your Medicare Advantage and Part D coverage for the coming year. |
| Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment | January 1 – March 31 | If you’re already in a Medicare Advantage plan, make a one-time change. |
Other enrollment windows can apply, including when you first become eligible. We can explain the timing that fits you.
A quick glossary
Premium
The amount you pay for coverage, often monthly.
Deductible
What you pay out of pocket before the plan starts to pay.
Copay
A set amount you pay for a covered service, like an office visit.
Coinsurance
Your share of a cost, usually a percentage, after any deductible.
Out-of-pocket maximum
A yearly cap on what you’ll pay for covered services on certain plans.
Network
The doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies a plan contracts with.
Formulary
A plan’s list of covered prescription drugs.
Medigap
Another name for a Medicare Supplement plan.
Explore specific coverage
Medicare Advantage
All-in-one plans (Part C).
Medicare Supplement
Medigap plans that fill in the gaps.
Prescription Drug Plans
Part D coverage for your medications.
Frequently asked questions
Is one path better — Original Medicare or Advantage?
Neither is better in the abstract. The right choice depends on your doctors, medications, budget, and how you like to use coverage. We’ll walk through the trade-offs with you.
When can I first sign up for Medicare?
Most people have an initial window around when they turn 65. Other windows can apply too. We’ll explain the timing that fits your situation.
Do I have to choose everything at once?
No — we’ll help you take it step by step, in plain language, at your own pace.
The Jeff George Agency is a licensed insurance agency. We are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
Have a question about how Medicare works?
A licensed advisor is happy to explain things clearly and patiently, whenever you’re ready.
Talk to an Advisor