Frequently Asked Question about Medicare
What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicaid is a need-based health care program for people with
low income and limited assets. Medicare is the country’s basic health
insurance program for people 65 and older and many people with disabilities.
Medicare Part A provides hospital insurance that helps pay for inpatient hospital
care and certain follow-up services. Medicare Part B helps pay for doctors’
services, outpatient hospital care and other medical services. Part B is optional.
How do I apply for Medicare?
One is eligible for Medicare Part A upon turning 65 years
old. You are automatically qualified if you receive social security or railroad
benefits upon turning 65. You also qualify if you have been receiving social
security disability benefits for 24 months. You may also qualify on a spouse’s
record, even if you are divorced. Government employees not covered by social
security who paid the Medicare part of social security tax also qualify, as
do people who have permanent kidney failure that requires maintenance dialysis
or a kidney replacement if they are insured or if they are the spouse or child
of an insured worker. Anyone who is eligible for free Medicare hospital insurance
(Part A) can enroll in Part B by paying the monthly premium. Part B is optional
and costs $54 per month (in 2002) if you choose to enroll.
If you are receiving social security benefits upon turning 65, enrollment in Medicare Part A is automatic. If you turn 65 and plan to keep working, but do not plan to sign up for social security benefits, you should call 1-800-722-1213 or visit a local social security office to discuss whether you should sign up for Medicare only. Please be advised that there are many other rules associated with Medicare enrollment including penalties for not enrolling in Part B when you are first eligible. You may call the toll free number or discuss this with a local social security office.
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