Medicare Definition

Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage primarily for people aged 65 and older, younger individuals with certain disabilities, and people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It consists of different parts that cover specific healthcare services:

• Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance that covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
• Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance that covers outpatient care, preventive services, doctor visits, durable medical equipment, and some home health care.
• Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): A private health plan option that includes all benefits and services covered under Parts A and B, often with additional benefits such as vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage.
• Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage that helps cover the cost of prescription medications.

Medicare is funded through payroll taxes, premiums paid by beneficiaries, and general revenue from the federal government. It plays a crucial role in providing access to healthcare services for older adults and individuals with disabilities across the country.