Medicare Basics

To view the
2010 Medicare Summary Chart

Medicare Basics

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 years or older, certain people with disabilities under age 65, and people with certain diseases. Medicare has several parts – Part A, which is hospital insurance, Part B, which is medical insurance and Part D, which is prescription drug coverage. Most people do not have to pay for part A, and part B is usually paid by a monthly deduction from your Social Security check.

Medicare is a critical source of health insurance for many Americans. Anyone who is eligible may receive Medicare benefits, regardless of any pre-existing conditions.

When am I eligible to receive Medicare benefits?

You are eligible for Medicare if you are a U.S. citizen or have been a permanent legal resident for five continuous years, and:

You are 65 years or older and eligible to receive Social Security; or
You are under 65, permanently disabled, and have received Social Security disability insurance payments for at least two years; or
You get continuing dialysis for permanent kidney failure or need a kidney transplant.

(Kaiser Family Foundation)

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