Medicare is a federally funded health insurance program created in 1965 by President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society initiative. In 2024, there were 61.2 million Medicare beneficiaries – 18% of the United States 346 million population. If you’re Medicare-eligible, you’re in good company.
Medicare provides health coverage to people 65 years and older, certain younger people with disabilities, and individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or other qualified illnesses. It helps cover medical costs like doctor visits, hospital stays, and other treatments. Here is more information about the program and who can receive its benefits.
Medicare has several parts, and there are public and private plan options. The public options are Original Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance). Private plan options include Part C Medicare Advantage plans, Part D stand-alone prescription drug plans, and Medicare Supplement plans (Medigap).
Medicare covers various services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, lab tests, home health care, and prescription drugs. The exact services covered depend on the type of plan you have. For example, Original Medicare (Parts A & B) typically covers hospital stays but not prescription drugs. However, if you purchase a Part D prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan, you can get additional coverage for your medications and other benefits such as comprehensive dental, vision, hearing, and more.
To learn about your Medicare plan options and their coverage, visit our article “Your Medicare Plan Options.”
A local licensed Connie Health agent can also walk you through enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Call (623) 223-8884 to speak with a local licensed agent.
If you are a US citizen or permanent resident who is 65 years old or older, you are eligible for Medicare. If you are younger than 65 but have specific disabilities or illnesses like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or chronic heart failure, you may also be eligible. Additionally, if you receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits for 24 months in a row, you may qualify for Medicare regardless of your age.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify for Medicare, the answer may depend on your age and any disability status or illness you may have. To find out if you’re eligible, take Connie Health’s Medicare eligibility quiz.
Unsure if it’s time to enroll in Medicare? A local licensed Connie Health agent can help you navigate enrollment. Call (623) 223-8884 to speak with an agent.
When you become eligible for Medicare, you may be enrolled automatically in Original Medicare at the time of your 65th birthday, or you may need to take action to enroll. Enrolling in Original Medicare Parts A and B is your first step to being covered. You should also enroll in Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage if you don’t have creditable coverage from another source.
Agent tip:
“Already enrolled in Medicare Part A & B? Have your red-white-and-blue Medicare card available when you’re ready to speak with a Connie Health local licensed agent.“
Once you receive your red-white-and-blue Medicare card, you can decide whether to expand your Medicare coverage with private options like a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) or Medicare Advantage plan. These private plan options can lower your Medicare out-of-pocket costs.
Do you need clarification on all your plan options? A local licensed Connie Health agent can help you choose the right plan for your health and budget. Call (623) 223-8884 to speak with an agent.
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Local, licensed insurance agents with 25+ years of experienceMedicare and Medicaid are two of the most well-known health insurance programs in the United States, but many people don’t know the difference between them. Understanding the distinction between Medicare and Medicaid is essential for seniors, in particular, for getting the best coverage possible.
Unlike Medicare, a federal program, Medicaid is administered by individual states but funded jointly by state and federal governments. It provides health insurance to low-income people who meet specific criteria, including families with children below a certain income level, pregnant women, adults aged 65 and over, blind or disabled individuals, and those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. It covers physician visits, hospital stays, home health care, laboratory tests, X-rays, and physical therapy.
The critical difference between Medicaid and Medicare is that Medicaid covers those with limited resources, whereas Medicare covers those aged 65 or older, regardless of their financial situation. Furthermore, while Medicare does not cover long-term care services such as nursing homes or personal care assistance, Medicaid does provide some coverage if it is deemed medically necessary by an approved medical provider.
Seniors should know the key differences between Medicare and Medicaid when considering their healthcare options. While both programs provide significant healthcare benefits to eligible recipients, it’s crucial to understand how each program works to ensure you’re getting the best coverage possible for your needs. With this knowledge, seniors can rest assured knowing they can access quality healthcare services regardless of their financial situation or age.
A local licensed Connie Health agent can also walk you through enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Call (623) 223-8884 to speak with an agent.
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Medicare and Medicaid are government programs designed to help with healthcare costs but serve different purposes and populations.
Medicare is primarily for individuals aged 65 or older, though it also covers younger people with specific disabilities or conditions, such as End-Stage Renal Disease. It’s a federal program, so benefits are generally the same, no matter where you live. Medicare is divided into parts, including Part A (hospital coverage), Part B (medical coverage), Part C (Medicare Advantage plans), and Part D (prescription drug coverage). Typically, it’s funded through payroll taxes and premiums.
Medicaid, on the other hand, is a joint federal and state program that helps cover medical costs for individuals and families with limited income and resources. Eligibility and benefits vary by state, and Medicaid often includes services not covered by Medicare, like nursing home care or personal care services. In certain circumstances, people can qualify for Medicare and Medicaid, known as “dual eligible.”
If you’re helping a senior loved one or planning for yourself, understanding both programs can ensure you take full advantage of your available benefits. Reviewing your specific eligibility and coverage options is always a great idea. If you have more questions, feel free to ask—we’re here to help you throughout your Medicare journey. Call (623) 223-8884 to speak to a local licensed Connie Health agent.
Medicare is available to individuals who meet specific criteria. Generally, you are eligible if:
It’s important to note that eligibility requirements might vary slightly depending on your unique situation. If you’re unsure, resources like Social Security or Medicare.gov can help determine your specific eligibility.
At Connie Health, we guide seniors, caregivers, and families through their Medicare journey, ensuring you or your loved ones make informed decisions. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to assist. Call (623) 223-8884 to speak with a local licensed Connie Health agent.
Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are known as “dual-eligible beneficiaries.” To be eligible, you typically need to meet the following criteria:
You must qualify for Medicare, which usually means being 65 or older, or younger than 65 with certain disabilities or medical conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
You must also meet your state’s income and asset limits to qualify for Medicaid. The specific income requirements vary by state, and Medicaid programs often factor in your financial need when assessing eligibility.
Benefits of Dual Eligibility:
Being eligible for both programs comes with significant advantages. Medicaid can help cover costs that Medicare doesn’t, such as premiums, deductibles, copayments, and some services like nursing home care or personal assistance.
If you’re unsure whether you or a loved one are eligible, reach out to your state’s Medicaid office or speak with a local licensed Connie Health agent at (623) 223-8884.
Read more by David Luna
I am a Spanish-speaking Arizona Life and Health Insurance Licensed Agent and have been helping people with Medicare since 2005. I am a Marine Corps Veteran & former police officer. I enjoy watching football and basketball but hold family time in the highest regard.
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