Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older, some disabled people under age 65, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Original Medicare has two parts (A+B) and helps millions of seniors and disabled individuals cover some of their health care costs each year.

Medicare Part A is hospital insurance that covers certain expenses incurred during an inpatient hospital stay. This includes things like room fees, meals, and rehabilitation services, as well as lab tests and x-rays.

Medicare Part A also covers necessary medical supplies and drugs administered during your hospital stay. However, it does not cover the fees of doctors associated with your care while in the hospital or unnecessary hospital fees, such as private duty nursing or personal care items.

Medicare Part B covers medically necessary outpatient services, such as routine doctor visits, emergency medical services, outpatient mental health services and preventive care services.

Medicare Part B also covers the equipment and tests administered during these outpatient services. Like Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B covers some medication administered during your visit but not drugs you are prescribed to take after the visit is complete.

If you are approaching the age of 65 or qualify for Medicare due to a disability, and you receive Social Security payments or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Original Medicare (A+B).

If you qualify for Medicare but you do NOT receive Social Security payments or RRB benefits, you will need to actively apply online, in-person or over the phone with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)