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Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease.

Medicare is divided into four parts: Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage plans), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

You can enroll in Medicare during the Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before you turn 65 and ends three months after your birthday month. There are also other enrollment periods for specific situations, such as the General Enrollment Period and Special Enrollment Periods.

Most people are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) when they turn 65 if they’re receiving Social Security benefits. However, you’ll need to actively enroll in Part B (medical insurance) during your Initial Enrollment Period if you’re not receiving Social Security benefits.

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services.

Medicare Part B covers medical services and supplies that are necessary to treat a medical condition or prevent it from getting worse. This includes doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans provide all the benefits of Part A and Part B, and often include additional benefits such as vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage.