Medicare Terms
Medicare Glossary
Clear, plain-language definitions for common Medicare words and phrases.
Common Medicare Terms
Use this quick reference to better understand your coverage choices and the language you may see during enrollment.
Annual Enrollment Period
The yearly time when you can review and make certain changes to Medicare coverage.
Coinsurance
Your share of the cost for a covered service, usually a percentage.
Copayment
A fixed amount you pay for a covered service or prescription.
Deductible
The amount you pay for covered services before your plan begins to pay.
Medicare Advantage
A Medicare-approved private plan that provides Part A and Part B benefits.
Medigap
Supplement insurance that can help pay some out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare.
Part D
Optional Medicare prescription drug coverage offered through private plans.
Premium
The amount you pay each month to keep your Medicare coverage.
Keep Learning
Put Terms in Context
A definition is a helpful start, but the right choice depends on how Medicare parts, costs, and enrollment rules work together.
Explore our Medicare 101 guides for straightforward explanations of coverage options, timing, and next steps.
Questions?
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