Medicare is a federally-sponsored health insurance program for people age 65 and older, certain people younger than 65 with a disability, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Medicare provides coverage for hospital care (Part A) and medical services (Part B). The different parts of Medicare help cover many health services. Medicare Parts A and B are referred to as Original Medicare.
Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility (SNF) care (in certain conditions on a short-term basis, does not cover long-term care), hospice care, and some home health care. Part A benefits are subject to a deductible (per benefit period) and also a coinsurance for extended inpatient hospital and SNF stays.
Medicare Part B covers medically necessary doctor and other health care provider’s services, outpatient medical services, laboratory tests, certain medical equipment and supplies, some home health care, and certain ambulance services. Part B also covers certain preventive services to prevent illness or detect it at an early stage. Most Part B benefits are subject to an annual deductible and also a coinsurance of 20 percent.
In general, Medicare (Part A-Hospital Insurance and Part B-Medical Insurance) is available for individuals age 65 or older, certain individuals under age 65 with disabilities, and individuals with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant).
End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is permanent kidney failure, Stage V chronic kidney disease, requiring a regular course of dialysis or kidney transplant. Individuals of all ages can be eligible for ESRD Medicare.
Other parts of Medicare include:
Medicare Advantage (Part C)A private health plan in which beneficiaries can enroll and receive all Medicare-covered Part A and Part B benefits and often Part D benefits as well.
Official Medicare Website
“Your Medicare Benefits”
This official government booklet has important information about the items and services covered.
“Medicare and You”The official U.S. government Medicare handbook.
