Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D and the Role of Social Security in Retirement Choices
- Reese Phillips II
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Navigating Medicare can be a confusing journey, especially for seniors gearing up for retirement. With multiple components—Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D—each plays a distinct role in your healthcare. Plus, understanding Social Security and your Full Retirement Age can significantly influence your choices. This blog aims to simplify these concepts and provide valuable insights for seniors and their families.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that primarily serves individuals aged 65 and older. It consists of four parts that address various health care needs:

Medicare Part A: Covers hospital stays and inpatient care.
Medicare Part B: Encompasses outpatient services and doctor visits.
Medicare Part C: Includes Medicare Advantage plans that often feature additional services.
Medicare Part D: Provides prescription drug coverage.
Grasping these parts is essential to make wise healthcare choices during retirement.
Breakdown of Medicare Parts
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A, often called hospital insurance, covers services that include:
Inpatient hospital stays: If you’re hospitalized for more than one night, Medicare A kicks in. In 2023, the average cost for a hospital stay was approximately $2,500.
Skilled nursing facility care: If you need rehabilitation after a hospital stay, Part A can cover eligible expenses for up to 100 days.
Hospice and home health care: Part A also covers hospice care for those diagnosed with terminal illnesses.
Most seniors do not pay a premium for Part A provided they have worked and contributed to Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Medicare Part B, known as medical insurance, covers a range of outpatient services, including:
Doctor visits: These appointments are essential for regular health checks and specialized care. In 2023, the average annual deductible for Part B was around $226.
Preventive services: Many screenings, such as colorectal cancer screening and flu shots, are covered at no cost.
Outpatient care: If you require therapy or outpatient surgery, Part B helps cover those costs.
Part B does require a monthly premium, which averages about $164.90 for most enrollees. However, this amount can vary based on your income.
Medicare Part C
Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, allows you to receive your Part A and Part B benefits through private insurers. These plans often include added features, such as:
Vision and dental coverage: Many Medicare Advantage plans provide services that Original Medicare does not cover.
Wellness programs: Some plans encourage preventive care and healthy living with resources like gym memberships and wellness classes.
Lower out-of-pocket costs: Depending on the plan, seniors may have reduced copays and deductibles.
As of 2023, approximately 43% of Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, reflecting a growing preference for this comprehensive coverage option.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D is dedicated to prescription drug coverage, helping seniors manage medication costs. Here are some important elements you should know:

Coverage for necessary medications: Each plan has a list of covered drugs, known as a formulary.
Monthly premiums: Part D premiums vary widely, averaging around $42 in 2023.
Annual deductibles and copayments: Enrollees may be required to pay a deductible before coverage begins, which can be up to $505.
It's essential to review different Part D plans since costs and coverage can differ significantly between providers.
Understanding Social Security and Full Retirement Age
The interplay between Social Security and Medicare choices is vital for effective retirement planning. Here are key points to consider:
Impact on Benefits: You can begin receiving Social Security benefits at age 62, but your amount may decrease significantly. If your Full Retirement Age (FRA) is between 66 and 67, waiting to claim benefits can increase your monthly amount by up to 8% for each year you delay.
Enrollment Period: At age 65, you become eligible for Medicare. Timing your application for Social Security can impact your overall financial and healthcare situation.
Plan Integration: When evaluating Medicare options, consider how each part aligns with your Social Security benefits and healthcare needs. For example, if you anticipate high medical expenses, choosing a Medicare Advantage plan with lower out-of-pocket costs may be beneficial.
How Preferred Senior Benefits Can Help

At Preferred Senior Benefits, we recognize that understanding Medicare can be daunting. Our experienced team offers personalized assistance to help you:
Grasp the differences among Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D.
Understand how Social Security affects your Medicare decisions.
Identify the best plan tailored to your healthcare needs.
With our support, seniors can confidently navigate their options and make informed decisions for a healthier retirement.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, alongside Social Security and your Full Retirement Age, is crucial for optimal retirement planning. Armed with the right information, you can take charge of your healthcare decisions confidently.
At Preferred Senior Benefits, we are here to answer your questions and assist you through this crucial process. Your health should be a priority—ensure you select the best Medicare path for your retirement.
About Preferred Senior Benefits in Meridian, Idaho
Medicare is a federal program that provides healthcare coverage to individuals 65 or older. Original Medicare coverage is broken into two parts—Part A and Part B—and is accepted by nearly every doctor and hospital in the country. Medicare Part A covers inpatient or hospital stays, while Part B covers outpatient or medical care. Parts A and B cover about 80% of seniors' typical healthcare costs. This leaves a few significant gaps in coverage. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plans are policies designed to help extend coverage, lessen costs, and ultimately give beneficiaries peace of mind. If you or someone you know would like more information about how to enroll in Original Medicare or one of the Medicare Advantage plans, call now to speak with a licensed agent (208) 818-2523. We can’t wait to help you learn about your options.
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