What Is Medicare?
Medicare was enacted in 1965 as a new way to help vulnerable Americans get access to affordable health insurance. In particular, Medicare helps aging adults, while Medicaid helps those living in poverty. Medicare didn’t change much until the prescription drug benefit was implemented in 2006—a major breakthrough.
The government has poured a lot of money into health care every year. This has resulted in better care, but constant re-assessment is needed to make sure people can keep getting coverage.
Today, Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Parts of Medicare
Medicare consists of four parts:
- Part A – Hospital Insurance
- Part B – Medical Insurance
- Part C – Medicare Advantage
- Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
Parts A and B are known as Original Medicare.
There are also other plans associated with Medicare, like Medigap and Medicare Advantage. If you need help with your options or you’re searching for a policy with a lower cost, reach out to Carolina Senior Benefits.
What Is Supplemental Insurance?
Original Medicare generally covers 80% of your medical costs, and you’re responsible for paying the other 20%. That’s where a supplemental insurance plan can help. If you visit the doctor often, that 20% can result in high out-of-pocket costs for you.
Medicare Eligibility
There are a few different eligibility requirements that would qualify someone for some form of Medicare. Some of these factors could offer automatic eligibility and approval, which include certain disabilities. Those that are automatically eligible for Medicare could opt to start receiving it as soon as their other benefits start. Other eligibility requirements stretch to people that are over 65 years old that may not be collecting Social Security.
Medicare Enrollment Information
Enrolling in Medicare can be slightly different for some, depending on your age and the plan you select. If you weren’t automatically enrolled in Parts A and B, you’ll need to actively sign up. You can do this in one of three ways:
- Online: On the Social Security website
- Via Phone: Call 1-800-633-4227, or
- In-Person: Visit your local Social Security office
You’ll want to enroll as soon as you’re eligible to avoid any late penalties. Your Initial Enrollment Period—when you’re first eligible for Medicare—begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends the three months after.
As stated, Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. However, you actually apply for Original Medicare through Social Security.
If you’re interested in Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplements, or prescription drug plans, you can enroll through a broker like Carolina Senior Benefits or contact the carrier directly.