Options For Medical Coverage For The Elders Of America
Anyone over the age of 65, under the age of 65 with specific disabilities or with permanent kidney failure, is eligible for medicare. For full eligibility you must be a United States citizen and have live here for, at least, 5 years. In the 1950s a need for a medical program for seniors became apparent. It wasn’t until 1965 that Congress passed the laws that created Medicare. Individuals contribute to Medicare during the years they work, much like social security. It is a federal program therefore guidelines for eligibility and services in all states are the same.
Medicare consists of two parts:
Medicare Part A – This helps to pay for care if you are a patient in a hospital, nursing home or hospice and for care in your home under certain conditions. Many do not pay a month premium for this because it is paid for by taxes that you have paid while working.
Medicare Part B – This helps to pay for doctors services and outpatient care that is medically necessary. It pays for preventative services like the flu shot and for some services to keep illnesses from worsening. In 2008, the standard monthly premium was $96.40.
Medicare offers free enrollment for the first seven months after your 65th birthday. Beneficiaries is the term used to describe those covered by Medicare. Medicare pays for most health care, but not all. It does, however, cover serious medical conditions, that the patient will usually recover from. It does not cover care given at home, or in a nursing facility, for those with recurring disability or longtime illness.
Medicare also provides Advantage Plans, although it is not available in every state. These plans offer prescription programs to the beneficiaries. Specific details depend on the program you choose and your eligibility.
You will receive your Medicare card, in the mail, three months before your birthday. If you are receiving Social Security benefits before you turn 65, you will be enrolled in Part A and Part B automatically the month you turn 65. Signing up for Medicare is simple, as long as you are aware of the different plans and enrollment periods.
Providing health insurance for your loved ones can be a strain when you find yourself unemployed and without medical coverage. When obtaining health insurance quotes it’s important to compare companies to ensure you are getting what you need at the lowest cost possible. For assistance in obtaining quotes go to gohealthinsurance.com.
