| Elders And Medical Care |
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| Written by Ethan Kalvin |
| Tuesday, 09 November 2010 10:25 |
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Medicare is health insurance coverage for those over the age of 65, under the age of 65 with specific disabilities and any person with permanent kidney failure. To be eligible, you must have entered in the United States in a way recognized by law and lived for 5 years. The need for a medical program for seniors became apparent in the 1950s, but it was not until 1965 when Congress passed the laws that created Medicare. Just like Social Security, those individuals contribute to Medicare during the years they work. It is a federal program so guidelines for eligibility and services are very similar in all states.
Medicare is health insurance coverage for those over the age of 65, under the age of 65 with specific disabilities and any person with permanent kidney failure. To be eligible, you must have entered in the United States in a way recognized by law and lived for 5 years. The need for a medical program for seniors became apparent in the 1950s, but it was not until 1965 when Congress passed the laws that created Medicare. Just like Social Security, those individuals contribute to Medicare during the years they work. It is a federal program so guidelines for eligibility and services are very similar in all states. There are two parts of Medicare: Medicare Part A - If you are a patient in a hospital, nursing home or hospice this is the part that helps cover the cost. It also covers care in your home under certain conditions. Because this was paid through taxes, that you paid while working, many do not need to contribute this part. Medicare Part B - Helps to pay for doctors services and outpatient care that is medically necessary. It also pays for preventative services such flu shots. In 2008, the standard monthly premium was $96.40. During the first seven months after your 65th birthday, medicare enrollment is free. Individuals covered by medicare as called beneficiaries and will have help paying for most of their medical needs. Medicare does not cover care given at home, or in a nursing facility, for those with recurring disability or longtime illness. Medicare does provide Advantage Plans where the plan can be customized to fit medical needs. This is not available in all areas. Some of these plans offer prescription programs and there are some private insurance companies who cover some of these programs. Details of the Advantage Plan depend on the certain program chosen and the eligibility of the patient. 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. You will receive your Medicare card in the mail three months before your birthday. Signing up is simple but you need to be knowledgeable on the different plans and enrollment periods. DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice. 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 receiving what you need at the lowest cost possible. For assistance in obtaining quotes stop by gohealthinsurance.com. |