Medicare is health insurance for the following:
- People age 65 and older
- People under 65 with certain disabilities
- People of any age with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
Original Medicare provides your Part A and Part B coverage. Different parts of Medicare cover specific services if you meet certain conditions.
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Helps cover the following:
- Inpatient care in hospitals
- Inpatient care in a skilled nursing facility
- Hospice care services
- Home health care services
You usually don't pay a monthly premium for Part A coverage if, while working, you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes.
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
Helps cover medically necessary services such as:
- Doctors' services
- Outpatient care
- Home health care services
- Other medical services
You normally pay a monthly premium for Part B coverage. The amount varies based on your reported income and how you pay for Part B.