Medicare basics
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Here is who qualifies, what it covers, and where the gaps are.
Medicare, in one paragraph
Medicare is a health insurance program administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). At age 65, if you are a US citizen or permanent resident, you qualify for Medicare Part A and Part B, also referred to as Original Medicare. Once you are enrolled in Original Medicare, you may decide you need or would like more services covered, like dental, vision and wellness plans, as Original Medicare only covers a portion. This is where CSG Insurance Pros licensed agents will be able to help you.
Who is eligible for Medicare?
You are eligible if you are a person who:
- Is 65 years or older
- Is under 65 years old with certain disabilities
- Is of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease
- Has been diagnosed with ALS
Is Medicare mandatory?
Although Medicare is not mandatory, it is a benefit you have paid for through taxes during your working years. Most people will pay no premium for Part A. Most recipients pay a monthly premium for Part B. While you may choose to stick with your medical insurance through your own or your spouse’s employer after turning 65, you may still want to enroll in Part A at no cost.
Where Original Medicare stops
Original Medicare was built to cover hospital stays and doctor visits. It does not cover routine dental, vision or hearing care, long-term care, or final expenses. Closing those gaps is a separate decision, and it is the part most people find confusing. Our guide to the types of Medicare plans walks through every option, and optional riders covers the supplemental policies that fill what is left.
Frequently asked
- Who is eligible for Medicare?
- You are eligible if you are 65 years or older, are under 65 with certain disabilities, are any age with End-Stage Renal Disease, or have been diagnosed with ALS.
- Is Medicare mandatory?
- Medicare is not mandatory, but it is a benefit you have paid for through taxes during your working years. Most people pay no premium for Part A. Most recipients pay a monthly premium for Part B. If you keep medical insurance through your own or a spouse's employer after turning 65, you may still want to enroll in Part A at no cost.
- What does Original Medicare not cover?
- Original Medicare only covers a portion of your care. It does not include routine dental, vision or wellness coverage, which is where a Medicare Advantage plan or standalone supplemental coverage comes in.
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