Medicare Basics
Medicare 101
A clear introduction to Medicare coverage, choices, costs, and enrollment.
The Foundation
Understand Your Coverage
Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older and for some younger people with qualifying disabilities or conditions. It is not one single plan: your coverage is built from parts that work together.
Start by learning what each part covers, then compare the paths available to you. iCare Medicare offers education to help you prepare informed questions and decisions.
Explore Medicare Topics
Choose a topic to learn the essentials at your own pace.
Parts A & B
Hospital and medical coverage basics.
Medicare Advantage
How Part C plans combine coverage.
Part D
Prescription drug coverage explained.
Original Medicare
How Parts A and B work together.
Medigap
Supplement coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
Costs & Coverage
Premiums, deductibles, and cost sharing.
Enrollment
Key periods and next steps.
Working Past 65
Coverage questions when you keep working.
Your Choices
Two Paths to Coverage
Original Medicare
Parts A and B, with the option to add Part D and a Medicare Supplement plan.
Medicare Advantage
A private plan alternative that provides Medicare-covered benefits and may include extra services.
Timing Matters
Enrollment periods can affect when coverage begins and whether late-enrollment penalties apply.
Common Questions
Medicare Basics Answered
These quick answers can help you begin. Your situation may depend on your work coverage, income, health needs, and timing.