What Is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance plan.
All U.S. citizens are eligible to receive Original Medicare at the age of 65. Original Medicare consists of Part A (inpatient hospital services) and Part B (outpatient medical services). Prescription drug coverage may be purchased separately under Part D Medicare, and special plans covering Original Medicare, Part D Medicare and more health services, also known as Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage plans), can be purchased from private insurance companies.
- For more information on Medicare, visit medicare.gov
- Apply For Medicare
- Check Your Medicare Enrollment
- Medicare Forms
Once you know you qualify for Medicare, you can evaluate your coverage options.
Medicare Eligibility
To be eligible for Medicare, you first have to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident residing in the U.S. for at least 5 years. If you meet that criteria and have worked for at least 10 years, you automatically become enrolled in Medicare Part A at the age of 65, which will cover emergency hospital stays. You also become eligible to enroll in Medicare Part B, covering preventive care and doctor’s visits, for a monthly premium.
Special Circumstances
Certain younger people may qualify for Medicare coverage if they have certain disabilities or life-threatening diseases. If you are under the age of 65, you may qualify for Medicare if you have:
- ALS (also known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”)
- End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
- Received Social Security Disability Income
(SSDI) for 24 months
Turning 65 or new to Medicare? Let us guide you through the gauntlet.
Find a FREE Educational EventWhat’s Not Covered Under Medicare Parts A & B
- Most dental care/dentures
- Eye exams/prescription glasses
- Prescription drugs
- Hearing aids
- Long-term care
- Homeopathic care
- Acupuncture
- Foot care and orthopedic shoes
- Certain routine or physical exams
- Deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments for health services
Know all your options.
Find your suitable health coverage with a Medicare Advantage or Supplement plan.
| Medicare Advantage | Medicare Supplement | |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital Insurance (Part A) | Yes | Yes |
| Medical Insurance (Part B) | Yes | Yes |
| Part B Premiums | Yes | Yes |
| $0 Hospital Copays | Yes | No |
| Network | Limited | Non-restricted |
| Prescription Drug Coverage | Yes | No |