What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older. It also covers some younger individuals with disabilities or serious medical conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Medicare helps pay for healthcare services such as hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, and prescription drugs — depending on the coverage you choose.

Most people qualify for Medicare through their work history. If you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you likely won’t pay a monthly premium for Part A, which covers hospital care.

Keep in mind: Medicare is not the same as Medicaid. Medicaid is based on income, while Medicare is based on age or disability.

For example, someone turning 65 might enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B to cover hospital care and doctor visits, then add a drug plan (Part D) or join a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C).

One common myth: Many think Medicare covers everything. It doesn’t. It won’t cover long-term care, most dental, vision, or hearing services unless you have additional coverage.

Medicare gives millions of Americans peace of mind by helping them afford the care they need — when they need it.

This app is for educational purposes only and is not affiliated with the U.S. government or CMS.