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What's Medicare?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for:

  • People who are 65 or older

  • Certain younger people with disabilities

  • People with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD)

 

What are the parts of Medicare?

 

The different parts of Medicare help cover specific services:

  • Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

  • Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.

  • Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

  • Part B covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.

  • Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)

  • Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs (including many recommended shots or vaccines).

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Qualifying for Medicaid

In all states, Medicaid is available to low-income individuals and families, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and the elderly. Medicaid programs vary from state to state, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows states to provide Medicaid to adults (under the age of 65) without minor children or a disability.

 

Income standards are usually based on the Federal Poverty Level. Each state has its own guidelines and eligibility requirements. For example In New York state, there is an income limit of $15,750 (in 2020) for individuals, but in Mississippi, the limit is much lower—$4,000.

 

Because these rules vary by state, it may be best to speak directly to a regional office to obtain the correct set of guidelines for your home state. You can find a link to connect you via the Medicaid website.

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