Medicare plans A and B, also known as Original Medicare or Traditional Medicare, provide coverage for a big chunk of your medical expenses after you turn 65. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing services, surgery, hospice care and certain health care facilities. Part B is responsible for covering doctors’ visits, outpatient care, several preventive services, and some medical equipment and supplies.
In most cases, you can apply for Medicare three months before the month you turn 65.
What is really the essence here is to understand that Medicare Part A and Part B do not provide full coverage of your health care expenses. Here’s a more in-depth look at what isn’t covered by Medicare, plus information about supplemental insurance policies that can help you minimize additional costs and avoid unwanted bills in retirement.