When you become eligible for Medicare, there’s a lot to consider. It’s important to understand how this kind of coverage fits in with coverage through Obama Care Quotes and the steps you’ll need to take to transition to Medicare on time.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with permanent kidney failure.
It’s important to note that Obama Care Quotes doesn’t sell Medicare plans. If you are currently an Obama Care Quotes enrollee and become eligible for or are enrolled in Medicare, you may need to take immediate action to avoid financial penalties and gaps in health coverage.
You can get free counseling regarding your Medicare eligibility and enrollment options, including whether you qualify for programs to reduce your Medicare costs, by calling the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) at (800) 777-7777.
Medicare and What It Covers
Medicare shouldn’t be thought of as a single program — it’s made up of several parts that provide coverage for different types of services.
Medicare Part A, also known as hospital insurance, covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health services. Medicare Part A is usually free if you or your spouse paid Medicare payroll taxes for approximately ten years while working (this is called “premium-free Part A”). If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you may have the option to pay for hospital insurance, also called “premium Part A”.
Medicare Part B, also known as medical insurance, covers certain doctor’s services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. Medicare Parts A and B combined is also known as “Original Medicare.”
Medicare Part D, also known as prescription drug coverage, can be added to Original Medicare.
Instead of purchasing Original Medicare, some people choose to buy a Medicare Advantage plan, which is Medicare Part C. Medicare Advantage covers hospital and medical insurance, and usually also covers prescription drugs.