Medicare is a federally funded program established under Title XVIII of the Social Security Amendments of 1965. It was designed to provide health insurance for individuals who are 65 years of age and older, along with younger individuals who have specific disabilities.
Key Components of Medicare
- Hospital Insurance (Part A) - Covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.
- Medical Insurance (Part B) - Covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
- Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) - A type of Medicare health plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide all your Part A and Part B benefits.
- Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) - Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, including many recommended vaccines.
Eligibility
To qualify for Medicare, individuals must meet certain criteria related to age, disability, and certain health conditions under specific circumstances.
Resources and Further Reading
Medicare plays a crucial role in providing health security to those who are sufficiently aged or disabled, ensuring access to necessary medical services.
