Understanding Medicare: A Guide to Your Coverage Options

Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed for:

• People age 65 or older

• Individuals under 65 with certain disabilities

• People of all ages with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant

Medicare is divided into different parts, each covering specific healthcare needs:

Medicare Part A – Hospital Insurance

• Cost: Most people don’t pay a premium, as they have already contributed through payroll taxes.

• Covers:

  • Inpatient hospital stays, including critical access hospitals

  • Skilled nursing facility care (not long-term or custodial care)

  • Hospice care

  • Some home healthcare services (eligibility conditions apply)

Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance

• Cost: Requires a monthly premium.

• Covers:

  • Doctor visits and outpatient care

  • Physical and occupational therapy

  • Home healthcare services not covered by Part A

  • Medically necessary preventive services and screenings

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage

• Cost: Requires a monthly premium.

• Available Since: January 1, 2006

• Covers:

  • Prescription drug costs

  • Protection against rising medication expenses

• Important: If you don’t enroll when first eligible, you may face a penalty if you join later.

For more details, visit www.cms.gov.

Need Help? By calling the number on this website, you’ll be connected with a licensed Medicare agent who can assist you in finding the right plan.