Medicare Basics

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a Health Insurance Program for:

• People 65 years of age and older.
  
  
• Some people with disabilities, under 65 years of age.
  
  
• People with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant).

Medicare has Two Parts:

• Part A (Hospital Insurance)

  Most people do not have to pay for Part A.
  

• Part B (Medical Insurance)

  Most people pay monthly for Part B.

You May Have Choices in How You Get Your Health Care.

• The Original Medicare Plan - This plan is available everywhere in the United States. It is the way most people get their Medicare Part A and Part B benefits. You may go to any doctor, specialist, or hospital that accepts Medicare. Medicare pays its share and you pay your share. Some things are not covered, like prescription drugs.
  
  
• Medicare Managed Care Plans - These are health care choices (like HMOs) in some areas of the country. In most plans, you can only go to doctors, specialists, or hospitals that are part of the plan. Plans must cover all Medicare Part A and B benefits. Some plans cover extras, like prescription drugs. Your out-of-pocket costs may be lower than in the Original Medicare Plan.