Medicare (see Medicare Hello page): 

It's a government health program

• It's deduction that is taken out of your paycheck, like social security.

• Part A is for Hospital Care and it is largely paid for in advance from your taxes. There is no monthly premium for part A.

• Part B pays for non-hospital care-doctors and specialists

  • annual appropriations pay for 75% of Part B so it is largely not paid for in advance with Medicare tax.  There is a premium for part B (2017 newly enrolled, $134 per month, many pay $104.90).

• Part C is managed care, Medicare Advantage and if you have it you do not have part B, typically you also don't have or need part D as it is covered in mgd care.

• Part D is for drugs (if not covered in a Part C plan)

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• When to enroll is often confusing, it is only automatic for those over 65 who have decided to start their social security retirement benefits.

• Annual enrollment is October to December with slightly varying dates (October 15 to December 7, 2016 dates).

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• About 25% of Tribes reimburse for Part B and Part D (some just Part C), that is that pay for it; and there is no tax liability for to patient.  This is a form of tribal premium sponsorship.