Free Medicare Educational Resource • Quick Reference
Understand Common Medicare Terms Without Sorting Through Technical Language
Use this quick reference as a plain-language starting point when you encounter common Medicare terms, abbreviations, coverage words, and program names.
Medicare Terminology Quick Reference is a free educational resource accompanying Medicare: I Get It Now!.
Independent educational resource. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Medicare Terminology Quick Reference
Part A
Part B
Part C
Part D
What’s Inside
Use one place to organize the information this resource covers.
The quick reference includes space or reference material for the following topics:
Part A
Part B
Part C
Part D
Original Medicare
Medicare Advantage
Medigap
Premium
Deductible
Copayment
Coinsurance
Network
Formulary
Prior authorization
Enrollment period
Appeal
Medicaid
Extra Help
CMS
SSA
SHIP
Keep in mind: This guide explains common terms at a general educational level. Definitions and program details should still be checked against current official information when a decision depends on them.
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Use this resource alongside other Medicare education.
Educational and non-affiliation notice: This resource and website provide general educational information. They are independently published and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare, CMS, HHS, SSA, HealthCare.gov, the Marketplace, or any government agency. Medicare rules, costs, dates, programs, and guidance may change; verify current information through appropriate official sources.