Frequently Asked Questions
Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older. It also covers certain younger people with disabilities and those with End-Stage Renal Disease.
Generally, individuals aged 65 or older, younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease are eligible for Medicare.
There are different parts of Original Medicare. Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance, Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance, Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans (offered by private companies), and Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage.
You can enroll in Medicare Advantage through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person.
Initial Enrollment Period: Starts 3 months before you turn 65, includes your birth month, and ends 3 months after you turn 65. General Enrollment Period: January 1 to March 31 each year. Special Enrollment Period: Available in certain circumstances, such as if you’re still working and covered by an employer’s health plan.
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover most dental care, vision exams, or hearing aids.
Long-term care, most dental care, eye exams related to prescribing glasses, dentures, cosmetic surgery, acupuncture, hearing aids, exams for fitting them, and routine foot care.
If you have other insurance, Original Medicare is the primary or secondary payer. The primary payer pays first up to the limits of its coverage, and the secondary payer pays the remaining costs.