• Medicare provides free or substantially subsidized health insurance coverage to Americans over 65 years old. It consists of four basic parts: Part A covers hospitalization costs; Part B covers physicians, lab fees and medical equipment; Part C, Medicare Advantage, provides managed care benefits; Part D covers prescription drugs.
  
  

When Can I Enroll?

• You can enroll during the open enrollment period when you turn 65 years old, provided you or your spouse are receiving or are eligible to receive Social Security benefits. Medicare officials recommend beginning the enrollment process three months before your 65th birthday.
  
  

How Do I Enroll?

• When you apply for Social Security benefits at age 65 or later, you are automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B. Part A is free. Part B requires a monthly premium. The Social Security Administration will send you paperwork to sign if you wish to decline Part B. You must enroll in Part A and Part B to qualify for enrollment in Part C, Medicare Advantage.
  
  

What Is Medicare Advantage?

• Medicare Advantage partners with local insurance and health care providers in your area. Plans vary by location. You can find Medicare Advantage providers by visiting the Medicare website, selecting "Medicare Basics" and "Part C" and scrolling down to the link to the Plan Comparison tool. Or simply use the link in the Resources section of this article.
  
  

Do I Need Part D?

• It depends. Many plans available under Medicare Advantage have prescription drugs included. If you don't enroll in Medicare Advantage, Part D coverage is an option.
  
  

Do I Need Medigap Insurance?

• A number of Medigap, or supplemental insurance plans, are available. However, Medigap insurance is not necessary if you have Medicare Part C, Medicare Advantage. Medigap coverage does not work for Medicare Advantage members.