Medicare
It is a health insurance program that benefits U.S. citizens over the age of 65 and people with certain disabilities.
Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and provides health coverage to millions of people nationwide.
The program is divided into the following parts:
Part A: Hospitalization
This part covers hospital services, skilled nursing care, palliative care and some home care services.
Part B: Medical services
Part B covers medically necessary services such as doctor’s visits, laboratory services, outpatient treatment, durable medical supplies and some preventive services.
Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans
These plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare.
They offer combined Part A and Part B benefits, and in some cases, also include prescription drug coverage (Part D) and additional services, such as dental and vision.
Part D: Prescription Drugs
Part D provides prescription drug coverage, helping to reduce necessary drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for Medicare, you generally must be at least 65 years of age or meet certain disability criteria. You must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident who has lived in the country for at least five consecutive years.
It is important to note that there are certain deadlines and enrollment periods in which you must enroll to avoid possible penalties.
Benefits and coverage
Medicare offers a wide range of health care benefits to its beneficiaries.
These benefits include hospitalization, medically necessary services, preventive care, specialty services and prescription drugs, depending on the part of Medicare in which you are enrolled.
Medicare beneficiaries also have the option to choose Medicare Advantage plans offered by private companies approved by Medicare.