Medicare

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for Americans aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities and end-stage renal disease. It is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicare has four parts: Part A (hospital insurance, generally premium-free for those with sufficient work history), Part B (medical insurance, with a monthly premium), Part C (Medicare Advantage, private plan alternative to A+B), and Part D (prescription drug coverage). Most beneficiaries have costs beyond what Medicare covers, making supplemental Medigap policies or Medicare Advantage plans important considerations.