Medicare is a national health insurance program paid for through workers' payroll taxes and deducted premiums from individuals' Social Security checks. Applicants must meet specific requirements to be eligible for Medicare.
Benefits
Medicare benefits include hospitalization coverage through Part A, and coverage for doctor's visits, medical services and supplies through Part B. A recipient can choose to have coverage through a Medicare Advantage Plan, also known as Part C. Prescription coverage is through Part D.
Over Age 65
At age 65, an individual who worked at least 10 years and paid Medicare taxes, and his spouse are eligible for Medicare Part A at no cost. He must qualify for or be receiving Social Security benefits or railroad benefits, or have worked at a government job. He must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. A worker who did not pay Medicare taxes is eligible for Part A coverage but must pay for it. A recipient can choose to purchase Part B or C coverage, too.
Under Age 65
An individual under age 65 can receive benefits if he is disabled or receives a disability pension from the railroad retirement board. An individual with end stage renal disease is also eligible for benefits before age 65.
Cost
Eligible applicants receive Part A coverage at no cost. As of 2010, the cost for Part B is $110.50 per month.
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