Medicare Part A vs Part B: What’s the Difference?
If you’re new to Medicare—or reviewing your coverage—you’ve probably seen these terms everywhere:
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part B
Many people assume they’re the same, or that you only need one. In reality, Part A and Part B cover very different things, and understanding the difference is critical to avoiding gaps in coverage and unexpected costs.
This guide explains Medicare Part A vs Part B in plain English, so you can understand what each part does and how they work together.
What Is Medicare Part A?
Medicare Part A is often called hospital insurance.
It helps cover care when you are formally admitted to a medical facility.
Medicare Part A Covers:
Inpatient hospital stays
Skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay)
Hospice care
Limited home health services
Cost of Medicare Part A
Most people pay $0 monthly premium if they worked at least 10 years
There is a hospital deductible when you’re admitted
Extended stays can include daily coinsurance
Because there’s usually no monthly premium, many people assume Part A alone is enough—but it isn’t.
What Is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B is known as medical insurance.
It covers care you receive outside of a hospital admission.
Medicare Part B Covers:
Doctor visits
Outpatient services
Preventive care (checkups, screenings, vaccines)
Lab work and imaging
Durable medical equipment (walkers, oxygen, wheelchairs)
Mental health services
Cost of Medicare Part B
Requires a monthly premium
Includes an annual deductible
Typically covers 80% of approved services, with you responsible for the remaining portion
Part B is what most people use most often throughout the year.
Do You Need Both Medicare Part A and Part B?
For most people, yes.
Part A and Part B are designed to work together:
Part A covers hospital-related care
Part B covers day-to-day medical care
Having only one can leave you exposed to:
Large medical bills
Coverage gaps
Enrollment penalties later
What Happens If You Delay Medicare Part B?
This is one of the most common and costly mistakes.
If you delay Part B without qualifying coverage:
You may face a late enrollment penalty
The penalty can last for life
You may have to wait to enroll during a later period
There are exceptions, but timing and documentation matter.
How Do Medicare Advantage and Supplements Fit In?
Once you have Part A and Part B, you typically choose how to enhance your coverage:
Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces A & B and may include extra benefits
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside A & B to reduce out-of-pocket costs
Which option is better depends on:
Your doctors
Your prescriptions
Your budget
Your health needs
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Why Understanding Part A vs Part B Matters
Confusion between Part A and Part B can lead to:
Missed enrollment deadlines
Unexpected medical bills
Denied claims
Lifetime penalties
Getting this right at the beginning saves stress and money later.
Get Help Understanding Your Medicare Options
If you’re unsure whether you need Part A, Part B, or both—or how they fit into your overall coverage—Medicare Plan Assistance can help.
A review can:
Explain your options clearly
Help you enroll correctly
Avoid unnecessary penalties
Ensure your coverage fits your needs
Call or contact Medicare Plan Assistance today to get clear answers and personalized guidance.