Call a licensed Medicare agent. 1-888-902-5708 (TTY 1-800-955-8770)
Introduction to Medicare
Created in 1965, Medicare is health insurance sponsored by the federal government for people 65 and older, or those under 65 who may qualify, if they have certain disabilities or conditions. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is the federal agency that runs the Medicare Program. CMS is a branch of the Department of Health and Human Services. Medicare is paid for through two trust fund accounts held by the U.S. Treasury. These funds are Hospital Insurance (HI) Trust Fund and Supplementary Medical Insurance (SMI) Trust Fund, which can only be used for Medicare.
What are the different parts of Medicare?
Medicare started with just two parts, Parts A and B, also referred to as Original Medicare. Later on, Medicare Advantage plans (also called Part C) and Part D prescription drug coverage were added as people’s needs changed. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are private health insurance plans sold by companies like Florida Blue.
Original Medicare
Parts A and B
Original Medicare includes Parts A and B. These are sponsored by the federal government. Part A covers hospital stays and inpatient care like skilled nursing facilities. Part B covers doctor visits, preventive health screenings, durable medical equipment, and more. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover all of your medical expenses. Because of this, other Medicare plans to help provide additional coverage.
Medicare Advantage
Part C
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are an all-in-one plan offered by private health insurance companies. Medicare Advantage health plans include the same coverage as Original Medicare, plus extras like vision, hearing, and dental care. Some Medicare Advantage plans also include Part D prescription drug coverage.
Prescription Drug
Part D
Medicare Part D, or prescription drug coverage plans are also offered by private insurance health companies. They offer coverage for your prescription drugs, including medications prescribed by your doctor and some vaccines.
Medicare Supplement
(Medigap)
Medicare Supplement plans, often called Medigap, help pay some out of pocket costs not covered by Medicare Parts A and B. Medicare Supplement plans are private insurance plans. Most people who choose a Medicare Supplement plan also choose a Medicare Part D plan.
When can I enroll in Medicare?
Knowing when and how to sign up for Medicare can help you get through enrollment with ease. Whether you’re under 65, turning 65 today or working past 65, we can help you understand your Medicare choices every step of the way. Medicare enrollment doesn’t automatically happen when you turn 65. You can enroll in Medicare anytime during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). This is the 7-month window when you can enroll in Medicare when you become eligible for Medicare.
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):
starts 3 months before the month you turn 65
includes the month you turn 65
ends 3 months after the month you turn 65
With health solutions from Florida Blue, you can get more Medicare benefits for less.
Ready to enroll?
Shop Florida Blue Medicare plans—we have health solutions for your unique needs.
Medicare Advantage
(Part C)
Prescription Drug
(Part D)
Medicare Supplement
(Medigap)
Call a licensed Medicare agent.
1-888-902-5708
(TTY 1-800-955-8770)
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Medicare Educational Resources
Find more resources and helpful information in our Medicare education library.
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