Medicare is a nationwide federal health insurance program, not to be mistaken with Medicaid. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has been in charge of running the program since it was first launched in 1965 by the Social Security Administration. Although the program is intended for individuals 65 and older, younger individuals may be eligible if they meet specific disability requirements. Individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease are eligible regardless of their age.
Medicare; Source- AARP
All About Medicare
Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, Medicare Part C, and Medicare Part D are the three components of the program, according to the Medicare website. Medicare Part A provides coverage for skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, inpatient hospital stays, and a portion of home healthcare. Preventive services, medical supplies, outpatient care, and certain doctor visits are all covered by Medicare Part B. Medicare Part D pays for both prescription medications and immunizations.
Pros And Cons Of Medicare
Medicare offers coverage to people who would not otherwise be able to afford it, which is one of its benefits. In comparison to other health insurance policies, the cost is low. It makes several medications accessible that were not before possible. The fact that Medicare costs the federal government about 18% of its total budget is just one of the program’s drawbacks. Even now, hospital stays can be very expensive for patients. You may have to pay more when you enroll if you are older. The cost of Medicare to taxpayers is high.
Claiming Both Medicare And Medicaid
There are several ways for people who want to sign up for Medicare. Paper enrollment forms are available for users to print, fill out, and return by mail. Additionally, users can reach 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Users are advised by the Medicare website not to provide private data to plan callers because you should never be called without authorization. Medicaid is a reasonably priced healthcare alternative that, depending on income, can occasionally be completely free. Since each state oversees Medicaid, there are differences in the qualifying standards. Every state has a different name for its Medicaid program, and you have to reapply every year. Children, expectant mothers, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income adults who qualify are usually covered by Medicaid.
