715.01 Definition of Medicare (MAM)

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Medicare is health insurance coverage provided nationally through the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSA determines whether an individual is eligible for Medicare. In general, Medicare is provided to:

. people age 65 and older;

. certain disabled people under age 65; and

. people of any age who have permanent kidney failure.

Although Medicare does not cover all medical expenses, it assists with the cost of basic health care. It is broken into two types:

Part A Medicare covers:

. inpatient hospital care;

. skilled nursing facility care after a hospital stay;

. home health care by a home health agency; and

. hospice care.

A premium is charged for Part A if the individual did not work enough quarters.

Part B Medicare covers:

. outpatient and physician expenses; and

. a number of other medical services and supplies.

A monthly premium is charged for Part B Medicare.