What's the cheapest way to get Medicare coverage if I only need basic hospital care?
Answered by 17 licensed agents
If you skip Part B (outpatient care) to avoid its monthly premium - here’s the catch: if you delay Part B and later decide you need it, YOU'LL FACE A LATE ENROLLMENT PENALTY —10% added to the premium for each year you could’ve enrolled but didn’t—unless you have other creditable coverage (like an employer plan). Also, Part A alone won’t cover doctor visits, labs, or outpatient procedures, so if “basic hospital care” might stretch beyond inpatient stays, you’d be paying those extras fully out-of-pocket. For pure cost minimization with a hospital-only focus, Part A solo is your leanest option—just be sure your needs won’t creep into Part B territory later.
Answered by Phillip Lovelady on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX
Answered by Charise Karjala on May 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO, PA & WA
Answered by William Lawler on April 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states
Answered by Ray McCauley on May 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, FL & ID, NV, SC & TN
Answered by Tom Rogala on March 31, 2025
Agent Licensed in MI, AR, AZ & 10 other states
Answered by Melanie Baxter Black on May 19, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX
Therefore, I would always stay with Original Medicare, and at least opt for a High-Deductible Supplemental plan. This way, you would have the best coverage for anything catastrophic, and if you didn't need to use it, even for a couple of years, you didn't overpay for it. It will protect you from severe financial distress and allow you to choose the best doctors so your situation won't worsen with severe financial obligations.
Answered by Norman Smith on April 6, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL & PA
Answered by Michael Pyers on May 16, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH & MI
Answered by Aaron Solomon on April 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, LA & TX
Here's why:
Part A (Hospital Insurance):
.
This part of Medicare usually covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice care. For most people, it's premium-free if they (or their spouse) have worked long enough and paid Medicare taxes.
Part B (Medical Insurance):
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This part covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, outpatient care, and some preventative services. While there is a monthly premium for Part B, it's generally the cheapest way to get a comprehensive base of Medicare coverage.
Additional Considerations:
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap):
.
If you want to supplement your Original Medicare coverage to help pay for certain costs like deductibles and copayments, you can purchase a Medigap policy.
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C):
.
These are alternative plans offered by private companies that are approved by Medicare. While some may offer extra benefits, they are generally more complex and could be more expensive than Original Medicare.
To get started, you would:
Check your eligibility: You'll need to be 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Enroll in Parts A and B: You can enroll in Part A and B at the Social Security Administration or online.
Consider if you need Medigap: If you want to supplement your coverage with additional coverage.
Important Notes:
Cost of Part B: In 2025, the average monthly premium for Part B is $185.
Income-related adjustment amounts: If your income is above a certain level, you may pay a higher premium for Part B.
Check with your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): They can provide personalized guidance on Medicare options in your area.
Answered by Fred Manas on May 20, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
You’ll still pay a $1,676 deductible per benefit period in 2025 and a daily coinsurance after 60 days of hospital stay.
Answered by Richard Balistreri on May 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in MO, AZ, FL & 7 other states
However be just know that without Part B, you’ll pay full out-of-pocket for doctor visits, so confirm your needs first. Check eligibility and enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period to secure this cost-effective coverage, keeping your healthcare simple and budget-friendly!
Answered by Douglas Carney on May 10, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NC, OK & TX
Medicare Part A usually costs $0 if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
It covers hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health care.
It's a great basic option if you're not using regular doctor visits or prescriptions much.
But remember, Part A only covers hospital care, not doctor visits or medicine.
Need help seeing if it’s enough for you? I can help you check in just a few minutes!
Answered by Ryan Ross on April 16, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, GA, KS & 9 other states
Medigap (Medicare Supplement): Provides coverage for things not covered by Medicare Parts A and B.
Medicare Advantage plans also have some options that could be affordable monthly where some are $0 monthly premium.
Medicaid: Based on factors such as medical condition or income level, you may be eligible for free or nearly free Medicaid coverage.
Medicare Savings Programs: For people 65 and older with low income to help with premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
Answered by Diana Pedersen on April 28, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA & ID
Answered by Kevin Chaikin on April 21, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, AL, AZ & 31 other states
Answered by Brianna Douros on April 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, CO & TX
Answered by Alicia Benton on May 15, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, AZ, IA & KS, SC, TN & VA
Tags: Advice for Seniors Coverage
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