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Medicare
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Older Adults

Medicare

Medicare is the U.S. government's health insurance program designed to assist with health care costs for eligible older adults and individuals with specific medical conditions.

Eligibility

Medicare is the U.S. government's health insurance program for people age 65 or older. Some people under age 65 can qualify for Medicare, too. They include those with disabilities, permanent kidney failure, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Coverage and Structure

Medicare helps with the cost of health care. It does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care. The program has four parts:

  • Part A is hospital insurance
  • Part B helps pay for medical services that Part A doesn't cover
  • Part C is called Medicare Advantage. If you have Parts A and B, you can choose this option to receive all of your health care through a provider organization, like an HMO.
  • Part D is prescription drug coverage. It helps pay for some medicines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans bundle Parts A, B, and often D into a single plan, usually with a network of providers and a cap on out‑of‑pocket costs. They may offer extra benefits (vision, dental). Switch if you prefer a single plan, lower costs, or extra services, but ensure the plan’s network covers your preferred doctors and hospitals.
Medicare generally does not cover long‑term custodial care, most dental care, routine vision exams, hearing aids, cosmetic surgery, or most prescription drugs (unless in Part D). You may need to pay for these services directly or through supplemental insurance (Medigap).
The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month of your birthday, and ends three months after. Enrolling during this window avoids late‑enrollment penalties. If you miss it, you may have to wait for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) tied to specific life events (e.g., losing employer coverage) and could face a penalty.
You can enroll in a Part D plan during your IEP or a Special Enrollment Period. Compare plans based on monthly premiums, deductible amounts, formulary coverage, and the cost of your specific medications. Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool to compare costs and read plan documents carefully before deciding.===
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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