Medicare Overview for Nebraska Seniors

Learn How Medicare Works in Nebraska and What Each Part Covers

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What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that helps cover medical expenses for millions of Americans. It was established in 1965 to give seniors and people with qualifying disabilities access to affordable healthcare.


Medicare is divided into four main parts — Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage) — each offering different types of benefits.


Whether you're approaching 65 or helping a loved one explore their options, learning the basics is the first step toward making informed, confident decisions.

Medicare eligibility checklist:

✓ You're 65 or older

✓ You've worked 10+ years

✓ You're receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits

✓  You have a qualifying disability or condition

✓ You're a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident

✓  You no longer have employer coverage

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What it is

Medicare isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan. It includes:

  • Part A – Hospital coverage
  • Part B – Doctor visits and outpatient care
  • Part D – Prescription drug coverage
  • Part C (Medicare Advantage) – Optional plans from private insurers that combine Parts A & B and often include extras like dental or vision


You can stick with Original Medicare (Parts A & B) or explore Medicare Advantage and Supplement (Medigap) plans to fill in the gaps.

Who it's for

Medicare is for:

  • Adults age 65 and older
  • People under 65 with certain disabilities
  • Those with qualifying conditions like ALS or ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease)


If you’ve paid into Social Security for at least 10 years, you’re likely eligible and if you’re already receiving benefits, you may be auto-enrolled.

When you can join

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and lasts for 7 months total. This is your best chance to enroll without penalties.


Missed that window? You can still enroll during the General Enrollment Period (Jan 1 – Mar 31), or if you’ve had major life changes, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

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Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C & D

Medicare Part A (Hospital Coverage)

Medicare Part A helps cover your hospital-related costs. This includes inpatient stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and limited home health services.


Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A since they’ve already paid into Medicare through payroll taxes while working. However, it’s not completely free — there’s a deductible each time you’re admitted to the hospital.


What’s covered:

  • Inpatient hospital stays
  • Skilled nursing facility care (short-term)
  • Hospice care
  • Limited home health services

What’s not covered:

  • Long-term custodial care (like assisted living or extended nursing home care)

If you think you may need long-term care in the future, separate long-term care insurance may be a good option. 


Questions about enrolling in Part A or what’s covered? We’re happy to help!

ASK ABOUT HOSPITAL COVERAGE

Medicare Part B (Doctors + Outpatient)

Part B covers your routine medical services — think doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive screenings, medical equipment, and more.


What’s covered:

  • Doctor visits and outpatient care
  • Lab tests, X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans
  • Cancer treatments (like chemo/radiation)
  • Preventive care: flu shots, colonoscopies, mammograms, etc.
  • Durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, etc.)
  • Ambulance services


Unlike Part A, Part B usually comes with a monthly premium. Some people may choose to delay enrolling (especially if they still have employer coverage), but timing is important to avoid late penalties.


If you’re already receiving Social Security at 65, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Part B. If not, you’ll need to sign up manually.

GET HELP WITH PART B ENROLLMENT

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is a private insurance alternative to Original Medicare. These plans bundle your Part A, Part B, and often Part D coverage into one convenient plan.


Why consider Part C?

  • Many plans include extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or gym memberships
  • You’ll choose between HMO or PPO networks
  • Often includes built-in prescription drug coverage

You must still enroll in Parts A & B to get a Medicare Advantage plan. Then, you can shop for a plan offered by private insurers in your area. It’s important to compare costs, networks, and coverage before enrolling.

EXPLORE MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and vary by county and pharmacy network.


What you need to know:

  • Plans have monthly premiums, copays, and sometimes deductibles
  • Coverage and costs vary depending on the drugs you take
  • You won’t enroll through Social Security — instead, you’ll choose a private plan

It’s important to pick a plan that covers the medications you take regularly. Enrolling late could result in a Part D penalty, so it’s important to get the timing right.


Need help comparing drug plans or checking coverage for your prescriptions? Let us know — we’re here to help.

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how much will medicare cost me

Understanding Medicare Costs for Nebraska Seniors

Wondering how much Medicare will cost you? You're not alone. Many Nebraska seniors are surprised to learn that while Medicare offers valuable coverage, it’s not entirely free.


What to Expect

Medicare costs can vary based on the coverage you choose — whether it’s Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), or Part D (Prescription Drugs). Some parts may have no premium, while others may include monthly costs, deductibles, or copays.


For example:

  • Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A if they’ve worked 10+ years
  • Part B typically has a standard monthly premium
  • Part C and D costs can vary depending on the private plan you choose


Planning Ahead Pays Off

The good news? If you’re reading this, you’re already taking the right steps. Planning ahead helps you avoid unexpected costs, coverage gaps, and late enrollment penalties.


Need Help Figuring It Out?

Understanding what your Medicare will cost doesn’t have to be complicated. We’re happy to walk you through it at no cost to you. A quick 30-minute Medicare consultation can give you personalized answers and peace of mind.

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