Are You New To Original Medicare?

Answer: Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and over, certain younger individuals with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. It comprises several parts: Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

Answer: If you're receiving Social Security benefits, you'll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65. If not, you can enroll through the Social Security Administration website, by calling them, or by visiting a local office during your initial enrollment period, which starts three months before you turn 65 and ends three months after.

Answer: Yes, individuals under 65 can qualify for Original Medicare due to a disability, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), following specific enrollment guidelines for these conditions.

Answer: If you have Original Medicare and other health insurance or coverage, each type of coverage is called a "payer." When there's more than one payer, "coordination of benefits" rules decide which one pays first. This depends on the type of other health insurance you have, such as employer-provided insurance, veterans benefits, or Medicaid.

Answer: If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for help with medical and drug costs through programs like Medicaid, the Medicare Savings Program, and the Extra Help program for prescription drug costs. Eligibility and application processes vary, so it's important to check with your local Medicaid office or the Social Security Administration for more information.

Answer: Medicare Part D adds prescription drug coverage to Original Medicare, some Medicare Cost Plans, some Medicare Private-Fee-for-Service (PFFS) Plans, and Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plans. These plans are offered by insurance companies and private companies approved by Medicare.