What is Medicare?
Medicare is the government’s health insurance plan. It’s mostly for our Kupuna (seniors) who are 65 and older. It also helps our younger neighbors who have certain disabilities or long-term health needs, like permanent kidney failure or ALS.
Who Qualifies for Medicare?
Most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted noncitizen who has lived in the U.S. for at least five continuous years.
Eligibility Categories
- Age 65+: You are eligible starting three months before your 65th birthday.
- Special Conditions: Individuals with ESRD (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant) or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) qualify regardless of age.
- Disability: If you have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, you are typically enrolled automatically in the 25th month.
The Fours Parts of Medicare
Medicare is divided into different “Parts” that cover specific services:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): An “all-in-one” alternative to Original Medicare. These private plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D (drug coverage).
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs (including many recommended shots or vaccines).
Navigating Medicare can feel like trying to paddle a canoe against a strong current—it’s a lot of work to do alone! A licensed Medicare Insurance Agent is like your guide. We are here to help you find the right path so you can focus on enjoying life with your family. To understand how we help, press this link below.