What is Medicare?
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Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that primarily serves individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific medical conditions. Original Medicare started January 1, 1966and consisted of Part A and Part B. Prescription drug coverage, Part D startedJanuary, 2006.
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Part A
Medicare Part A is the hospital insurance portion of Medicare that covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse have worked and paid Medicare taxes for a certain period.
Part B
Medicare Part B is the medical insurance portion of Medicare that covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some home health care. It helps pay for services such as:
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Doctor visits
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Outpatient hospital services
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Durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs and walkers)
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Preventive services (like flu shots and screenings
*There is a premium for Part B.
Part D
Medicare Part D is a federal program in the United States that provides prescription drug coverage to individuals who are eligible for Medicare.