WHAT IS MEDICARE?

What is Medicare?

Medicare is health insurance for anyone aged 65 or older and for people under 65 with certain disabilities. People with end-stage renal disease or ALS are also eligible for this insurance coverage, no matter their age. In general, Plan A covers inpatient care in a hospital, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and home health care. You do not pay for this coverage. Plan B covers medically necessary tests and supplies to diagnose a disease or provide treatment. It also covers preventative care like a yearly wellness exam and flu shot. This portion includes a premium. Most people pay the standard premium amount, but if your modified adjusted gross income as reported on your IRS tax return from 2 years ago is above a certain amount, you’ll pay slightly more.

Plan A and B recipients qualify for “Medigap” plans, also referred to as Supplement plans, which help pay for costs not covered by those plans. Most  patients purchase a Part D prescription plan, along with dental and vision plans. Medigap should not be confused with Medicare Advantage, an alternative offered by private insurers. Follow the links below to learn more about each plan.