What Is Medicare?
Established in 1965, Medicare was created to fill the gap in insurance coverage for those in the United States who do not have the ability to work to gain insurance from their employer. This could be due to age, disability or disease. Medicare is not designed to cover everything, but is designed to help at least guarantee access to basic emergency health services.
Eligibility
Medicare is reserved for those in the United States who are over 65 years of age and who are also eligible for Social Security or railroad retirement benefits. This coverage extends also to spouses. Medicare also covers those who are younger than 65 who have certain disabilities that affect their ability to work; but to qualify they must have received Social Security benefits for at least two years before signing up. There is also a clause that allows anyone, regardless of age, access to Medicare if they are experiencing kidney failure due to end-stage renal disease. For more detailed information on eligibility requirements, contact your local Social Security office.
What It Covers
Medicare is split into two main parts, Medicare part A and Medicare part B. Medicare A is funded by tax money and covers things such as inpatient hospitalization, home health care and nursing facility care. Once you have enrolled in part A, you have the option to enroll in part B, which requires the payment of a monthly premium. Part B covers things such as your basic health care visits to your doctor as well as some medical supplies and services. Part B also covers rehabilitative care, outpatient services at the hospital and ambulance care.
What It Doesn't Cover
Some of the things that Medicare does not cover are vision, dental, foot care (except in specific situations), custodial care (such as help bathing and dressing), cosmetic surgery, experimental treatments or most prescription drugs. If you are unsure whether your health care needs will be provided for under Medicare, talk to a representative at your local Social Security office.
How to Apply
Applying for Medicare benefits can be done at the same time you apply for Social Security benefits at your local Social Security office. If you are 64 years old, it is recommended that you contact your Social Security office at least three months before you turn 65. This will give time for the paperwork to go through before you turn 65. There is a penalty fee for late enrollment if you file after you turn 65. Your benefits will become active on the first day of the month you turn 65.
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