What is Medicare
Medicare is our federal government’s health insurance program for people 65 and better (and for some people with disabilities). Original Medicare has two parts:
- Part A — Hospital InsuranceThis part is paid for from the Social Security (FICA) taxes deducted from your paycheck, and from contributions by your employer.
- Part B — Medical InsuranceYou pay a monthly premium when you enroll in this part of Medicare.
Is everyone eligible for original medicare?
Eligibility varies. People age 65 and better are eligible for Part A if (1) they are getting (or are entitled to) Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, or (2) they have been a government employee for the required number of years. If you don’t qualify for Part A, you might still be able to enroll if you pay a monthly premium. Nearly everyone 65 or better is eligible for Part B.
What does Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) cover?
Medicare Part A helps pay for:
- Hospital Care
Up to 90 days per benefit period are covered. (A benefit period starts when you are admitted to the hospital and ends when you have not received hospital care or skilled care for 60 days in a row.) Your Part A Hospital Insurance will cover the first 60 days after the first $1,068. For the next 30 days, Medicare will cover all covered costs beyond $267 per day. - Skilled Nursing or Rehabilitative Care
After a hospital stay of at least three days, your stay in a Medicare-certified Skilled Nursing Center can be covered at 100% for the first 20 days. For the next 80 days, Medicare Part A covers everything except the daily co-insurance (the amount of which changes annually).In-patient services include room and board and all ancillary services such as labs, therapy, pharmaceuticals, and more.
After discharge from a Medicare-covered stay — either hospital or skilled nursing — patients may be reinstated within 30 days for skilled inpatient services that are covered by Medicare.
- Home Health Care
If you need follow-up healthcare in your own home, Part A pays the approved cost of covered services, including part-time skilled nursing or home care aide; physical, speech, and occupational therapy; medical social services; and medical supplies.
- Hospice Care
If you are certified as terminally ill, Medicare Part A pays covered costs associate with Hospice. Outpatient drugs and Respite Care are partially covered.