Medicare with Blue Cross and Blue Shield
When it comes to finding the right Medicare plan, continue with the great partner you know and trust.
Find the Best Medicare Plan for You
Enter your ZIP Code to explore what Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) companies have to offer.
4 benefits of choosing Medicare Advantage
Discover why Medicare Advantage is the preferred choice for America's seniors.
BCBS Medicare coverage options
Medicare doesn’t have to be complicated. BCBS makes it easier to understand your options whether you want all-in-one coverage or help supplementing your existing coverage.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Manage all your Medicare benefits in one convenient plan with BCBS Medicare Advantage, often including extras like vision and dental.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
If you have Original Medicare but need additional coverage, BCBS companies offer Medicare Supplement that helps pay out-of-pocket costs like copays, deductibles and coinsurance.
Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
BCBS companies offer Medicare Part D plans with additional coverage for prescription drugs not covered by Original Medicare.
Start your Medicare journey informed and confident. Learn about Medicare, eligibility and your plan options.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older. It also covers younger individuals with qualifying disabilities or conditions such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
What are the different parts of Medicare and what do they cover?
Medicare has four parts to match your needs and budget:
- Part A – Hospital stays, hospice, limited nursing care (Original Medicare)
- Part B – Outpatient care, preventive services, doctor visits (Original Medicare)
- Part C – Everything Original Medicare covers and often extra benefits (Medicare Advantage)
- Part D – Prescription drug costs
Who is eligible for Medicare?
Medicare eligibility depends on many factors. Most people qualify for Medicare if they:
- Are age 65 or older
- Receive Social Security disability or Railroad Retirement Board benefits
- Are under 65 with specific conditions like ALS or ESRD
Why choose a Medicare plan from a BCBS company?
For over 90 years, BCBS has proudly served millions of Americans with trusted Medicare coverage. Our Medicare plans combine local expertise, broad networks, and personalized care that supports your health today and tomorrow.
- Access care from more than 2 million doctors nationwide through BCBS’s extensive network.
- Get comprehensive health solutions including personalized care management, wellness programs, and clinical support.
- With each BCBS company being rooted in your community, we're helping to make sure your health care needs are being met at a local level.
Frequently asked questions about Medicare
Both are government-funded health insurance programs. Medicare is generally intended for individuals aged 65 and older, and those with certain disabilities or medical conditions, regardless of income. Medicaid is for low-income individuals and families. It’s possible for certain people to be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally doesn’t cover routine dental care. Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like routine hearing or dental care.
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally doesn’t cover hearing aids or exams for fitting them. Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like routine hearing or dental care.
Costs vary depending on your plan, income level, and whether you choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medigap plan. Some preventive services are fully covered.
To enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A and B), sign up through Medicare.gov or contact the Social Security Administration online, by phone or in person. For Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Part D plans, enroll directly with an approved health insurance provider online, by phone or through an agent.
Find Medicare Plans from BCBS in Your Area
Need personalized help? Connect with a BCBS Medicare specialist for expert guidance.
Medicare overview information on this website was developed by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association to help consumers understand certain aspects about Medicare. Viewing this Medicare overview does not require you to enroll in any Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. Plans are insured and offered through separate Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans are offered by a Medicare Advantage organization and/or Part D plan sponsor with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in these plans depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. To find out about premiums, benefits and terms for these plans and other insurance options, how to apply for coverage, and for much more information, reach out to your local BCBS company. Each Blue Cross and Blue Shield company is responsible for the information it provides. For more information about Medicare, including a complete list of plans available in your area, please contact the Medicare program at 1.800.MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1.877.486.2048) or visit www.medicare.gov.
Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.