What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, people with certain disabilities, and people with end-stage renal disease.

Who is eligible for Medicare?

People who are 65 or older, people with certain disabilities, and people with end-stage renal disease are eligible for Medicare.

How do I enroll in Medicare?

You can enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before you turn 65 and lasts for seven months. You can also enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year.

What are the different parts of Medicare?

Medicare has four parts: Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

What does Medicare Part A cover?

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, hospice care, skilled nursing facility care, and home health care.

What does Medicare Part B cover?

Medicare Part B covers doctor services, preventive services, and other medical services and supplies that are considered medically necessary.

What is Medicare Part C?

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is a way to get your Medicare benefits through a private insurance plan.

What is Medicare Part D?

Medicare Part D is a prescription drug coverage plan.

How much does Medicare cost?

The cost of Medicare depends on the specific plan and coverage you choose. Most people pay a premium for Part B, and some people may pay additional costs for other parts of Medicare.

Are there any additional costs for Medicare?

Yes, there may be additional costs for Medicare, such as copays, deductibles, and coinsurance.

What is Medigap?

Medigap is a type of private insurance that can help cover some of the out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare.

What is a Medicare Advantage plan?

A Medicare Advantage plan is a way to get your Medicare benefits through a private insurance plan.

Can I change my Medicare coverage during the year?

Yes, you can change your Medicare coverage during certain times of the year, such as during the Annual Enrollment Period or if you have a special circumstance.

What happens if I don’t sign up for Medicare when I’m first eligible?

If you don’t sign up for Medicare when you’re first eligible, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty and you may have a gap in coverage.

Can I have both Medicare and private health insurance?

Yes, you can have both Medicare and private health insurance, but the private insurance may or may not help pay for costs that Medicare doesn’t cover.