Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C & D
Medicare Part A - Hospital Insurance
Medicare Part A helps cover the major medical expenses associated with hospital care. It includes:
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Inpatient hospital stays
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Skilled nursing facility care
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Hospice care
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Limited home health care
Most people receive Part A premium-free, and it forms the foundation of your Medicare coverage. Understanding how deductibles and hospital stay limits work can help you avoid unexpected costs.
Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance
Part B covers everyday medical needs and preventive care, including:
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Doctor visits
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Outpatient procedures
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Lab work and diagnostic tests
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Preventive services (mammograms, vaccines, screenings)
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Durable medical equipment
Part B typically requires a monthly premium. Choosing when to enroll and how coverage works with other insurance is an important part of your retirement health strategy. We help you compare options, penalties, and benefits so there are no surprises.
Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage (Part C) combines the benefits of Parts A and B into an all-in-one plan offered by private insurance companies.
Most plans also include:
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Prescription drug coverage
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Dental, vision, and hearing benefits
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Wellness programs
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Annual out-of-pocket limits for added protection
These plans vary widely. As an independent advisor, Garry reviews multiple carriers to help you compare benefits, networks, copays, and extras so you find the plan that fits your needs—not the other way around.
Medicare Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
Part D helps reduce the cost of prescription medications. Every plan has its own:
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Drug formulary (list of covered medications)
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Pharmacy network
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Premiums, copays, and deductibles
Choosing the right Part D plan is essential—especially if you take regular medications. We analyze your prescriptions, compare all available plans, and identify the most cost-efficient options each year.
Explore your Options
With a strong foundation of trust, integrity, and personal service, Garry Edwards provides:
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Independent plan comparison
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Yearly reviews to ensure your plan still fits
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Complimentary consultations
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Clear explanations so you can make confident decisions
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A fiduciary commitment to always put your needs first
For decades, seniors across the Southeast have relied on Garry’s experience and dedication to help them understand the pros and cons of Medicare options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D?
Medicare is divided into four parts to help cover different types of healthcare needs.
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Part A covers hospital care, skilled nursing, and hospice.
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Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services.
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Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines Parts A & B and often includes additional benefits such as dental, vision, and drug coverage.
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Part D provides prescription drug coverage.
Garry helps simplify these options so you can choose the combination that best fits your health needs and budget.
Do I need both Medicare Part B and a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan?
No, you cannot enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan without first being enrolled in Parts A and B. However, once you join a Part C plan, it replaces Original Medicare coverage while still giving you all Part A and B benefits, often with extras. Garry reviews each option with you to ensure you choose the plan structure that provides the most value.
What does Medicare not cover, and how can I fill the gaps?
Medicare does not cover everything. Services like long-term care, most dental work, hearing aids, and routine vision exams may not be included under Parts A or B. To fill these gaps, seniors often choose a Medicare Supplement Plan, a Medicare Advantage plan, or ancillary policies such as dental, vision, or cancer coverage. Garry offers guidance on which combination best protects your health and finances.
When can I change my Medicare plan?
You can make changes during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7), when you’re free to switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. Additional periods may apply if you experience a qualifying life event, such as moving or losing employer coverage. Garry provides yearly reviews to ensure your plan stays aligned with your medical needs and budget.
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7 Professional Parkway, Suite 203, Hattiesburg, MS