Medicare is a federal program that offers health insurance to American citizens and other eligible individuals.

Medicare is available for U.S. citizens and legal residents that meet certain requirements:

-65 years old or older

-Younger than 65 years old with qualifying disability

-Any age with a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease or ALS

IMPORTANT: Legal residents must have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years in a row before applying for Medicare.

Part A

Part A covers inpatient hospital and skilled nursing care.

Part B

Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient care.

Part C

Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage plans, combine Part A, Part B and often prescription drug coverage (Part D). Some plans may offer additional benefits like coverage for routine vision and dental care.

Part D

Part D, also known as Medicare prescription drug plans, helps pay for medications prescribed by a doctor or other health care professional.

Medigap

Medigap, also known as Medicare supplement insurance plans, helps pay some of the out-of-pocket costs of Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

Medicare isn't free. The amount you'll pay depends on the coverage you choose and the health care services you receive.

These are some of the costs you may pay with Medicare:

-Premium

-Deductible

-Copay

-Coinsurance