Millions of older adults in the United States rely on Medicare for healthcare coverage. The program serves tens of millions of people, and enrollment continues to grow as the population ages.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older. Some individuals under 65 may also qualify if they have certain disabilities or specific medical conditions, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant.
Medicare helps cover many healthcare costs, but it does not pay for everything. It also generally does not cover most long-term care expenses, such as extended nursing home stays.
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Medicare Part A helps cover:
- Inpatient hospital care
- Limited skilled nursing facility care after a qualifying hospital stay
- Hospice care
- Certain home health services
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
Medicare Part B helps cover a wide range of medical services, including:
- Visits to doctors and healthcare providers
- Outpatient care
- Preventive services
- Home health care
- Durable medical equipment
Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)
Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage through private plans approved by Medicare. This coverage is optional, but enrolling when you are first eligible can help you avoid late enrollment penalties.
Even if you do not currently take prescription medications, Part D may still be worth considering. A late enrollment penalty may apply if you wait too long to sign up and later decide you need coverage.
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)
Medicare Advantage, also called Medicare Part C, is an alternative way to receive Medicare coverage through private insurance companies. Medicare Advantage plans typically include:
- Medicare Part A and Part B benefits
- Prescription drug coverage in many plans
- Additional benefits that may include vision, hearing, or dental coverage
Plan benefits, costs, and provider networks vary, so it is important to compare options carefully.
Getting Started
When you become eligible for Medicare, you will have several choices to make. Understanding your enrollment process and coverage options can help you avoid delays and gaps in coverage.
Enroll in Medicare Through Social Security
If you are not already receiving Social Security benefits, you generally need to sign up for Medicare when you become eligible. This includes enrolling in Part A and Part B during your initial enrollment period.
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you are typically enrolled automatically in Medicare Parts A and B when you become eligible. You may receive a welcome packet before your coverage begins. Even with automatic enrollment, it is important to review your options and deadlines.
Some locations, including Puerto Rico, have different enrollment rules, so residents should confirm which parts of Medicare they receive automatically and what they may need to sign up for separately.
Select Your Coverage
People receive Medicare coverage in different ways. You may choose Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and add Part D and supplemental coverage if needed. Or you may choose a Medicare Advantage plan that combines coverage into one plan.
Helpful resources often include:
- Your Medicare welcome materials
- The official Medicare handbook is sent annually
- Information from private insurers that offer Medicare plans
Benefits of Medicare
Medicare provides important healthcare access for older adults and people with qualifying disabilities. It helps many individuals receive coverage that might otherwise be unaffordable, especially as healthcare needs often increase with age.
Medicare also supports access to preventive care, hospital services, and prescription medications. While many people qualify for premium-free Part A, most beneficiaries pay a monthly premium for Part B and may have additional costs depending on their coverage choices.
Takeaway
Medicare plays a critical role in helping older adults and people with disabilities manage healthcare costs. While it does not cover every expense, it can provide essential protection against high medical bills.
If you are approaching Medicare eligibility, it is important to understand what each part covers, when to enroll, and how to compare plan options. The better informed you are, the easier it is to choose coverage that fits your healthcare needs and budget.