Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:

• People 65 or older

• People under 65 with certain disabilities

• Individuals with End‑Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS 

• If you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, you’re enrolled automatically in Part A and Part B.

• If not, you must sign up manually, usually during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).

•  IEP: Is a seven-month window 3 months before your Birthday. Your birth month. 3 months after your Birthday.

• AEP: (Annual Enrollment Period): October 15th- December 7th each year

• OEP: (Open Enrollment Period): January 1st- March 31st each year

• SEP:( Leaving qualifying coverage into Medicare) example: Employer Group Insurance Coverage

Not always. It depends on employer size and plan rules. Many people delay Part B to avoid paying unnecessary premiums.

• Inpatient hospital care

• Skilled nursing facility care

• Hospice

• Some home health care

• Doctor visits

• Outpatient care

• Preventive services

• Durable medical equipment (DME)

Part D covers prescription drugs through private insurance plans.

An alternative to Original Medicare that bundles:

• Part A

• Part B

• Usually, Part D Often includes extras like dental, vision, and hearing.

Yes. Higher‑income individuals may pay IRMAA (Income‑Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) for Part B and Part D.

Yes—Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) help pay premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance for eligible individuals.

Yes, Medicare covers many telehealth services, with expanded options in recent years.

• Original Medicare: Limited coverage

• Medicare Advantage: Often includes these benefits

Medicare covers certain services related to Alzheimer’s, including diagnosis and some treatments, but not long‑term custodial care.

Yes—Medicare covers medically necessary treatments, tests, and equipment for respiratory conditions.

Your hospital status affects:

• What Medicare pays

• Your out‑of‑pocket costs

• Eligibility for skilled nursing facility care

Medicare recommends asking about:

• Follow‑up care

• Medications

• Home support needs

Yes—reporting ensures proper closure of benefits.

A flex card is a benefit offered by some Medicare Advantage plans, not by Original Medicare.

The Medicare & You handbook provides comprehensive, updated information every year and is available in print or electronic formats.