Understanding what Medicare is, how it works, and what it covers can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Whether you’re new to Medicare or are simply wanting to learn more, the resources provided here can help you get started.


What is Medicare?


    Medicare is a federal health insurance program for adults who are 65 years or older, certain children (under the age of 18) with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (for example, kidney failure requiring medical treatment). There are three distinct parts to Medicare; Part A, Part B, and Part D. Medicare Part A is hospital insurance, covering hospital stays, long term stays in a skilled nursing facility, some hospice and home health care. Medicare Part B is medical insurance, covering doctor services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. Finally, Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage, which helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, recommended shots, and vaccines. Visit the Medicare government website for a more in-depth explanation into each Medicare Part.


What are the Advantages of Medicare?

  • Health insurance coverage is provided to millions of people.
    • More than 60 million Americans (HelpAdvisor) are insured through Medicare’s Part A and B Plans, making Medicare one of the largest health insurance programs in the US.
  • Medicare has wide-ranging coverage.
    • No matter if you’re inpatient or outpatient, buying medical supplies, or receiving vaccines or booster shots, Medicare will cover most, if not all the expenses.
  • You will be paying low monthly premiums.
    • In 2023, Part A benefits did not have a premium, and Part B’s standard monthly premium was $164.90 per month. (HelpAdvisor). 
  • Medicare has nationwide acceptance.
    • Original Medicare is generally accepted in all 50 U.S. states and the U.S. territories, although not every doctor office/hospital accepts Medicare, so be sure to check with your healthcare provider to see if Medicare is accepted
  • Direct eligibility requirements.
    • In most cases, if you are 65 years or older, a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident who has lived in the country for more than five years, you have a strong chance on qualifying for Medicare. This includes people with disability benefits from Social Security, the Railroad Requirement Board, and those with ESRD. (HelpAdvisor).

What rights do I have if I am Insured by Medicare?

  1. Medicare ensures you get the health care services the law says you can get.
  2. Medicare safeguards your privacy.
  3. Medicare protects you from unethical practices/treatments.
  4. Medicare provides for your safety when you obtain health care. (Medicare.gov).

To read all the Medicare Rights, visit Medicare.gov.

    Medicare is a vital program that provides healthcare coverage to millions of Americans. It’s important to understand the different Medicare Parts (A, B, D, and Original) and how they work together to provide comprehensive coverage. With this knowledge, you can make informed and responsible decisions about your healthcare and what coverage you need.

Resources:

Medicare.gov

HelpAdvisor