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Medical expenses in the United States can be a significant burden for families, especially when a person retires, loses their job-based insurance, or has limited income. Therefore, knowing the public health programs available can help you find options to pay for doctor visits, hospitalizations, medications, and other services. Do you know what Medicare and Medicaid are? Here, we explain what each one consists of, what they cover, and how they help you take care of your health.
Two of the most important programs in the United States are Medicare and Medicaid. Although their names are similar, they have different eligibility requirements, funding methods, and coverage.
What is Medicare and what is it for?
Medicare is a federal social security coverage program aimed primarily at people 65 years of age or older and certain beneficiaries with disabilities.
What is Medicaid in the United States?
Medicaid is a joint program between the federal government and state governments in the United States that provides free or low-cost health insurance to individuals and families with limited income and financial resources.
What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is primarily aimed at people over 65, as well as some younger people with certain disabilities or illnesses. For its part, Medicaid is a program that offers medical coverage to people who meet financial criteria and other eligibility conditions.
What does Medicare cover in the United States?
The program is divided into four main parts:
- Parte A: hospitalización
- Parte B: consultas médicas y atención ambulatoria
- Parte C: Medicare Advantage
- Parte D: medicamentos recetados.
Who can apply for Medicare?
According to the official United States government website, this insurance is designed for people who are 65 or older, but it can also be accessed if you meet the following conditions:
-You have a disability
-You suffer from end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
-You have Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS).
Is Medicare free?
Not necessarily. Some people can receive Part A without paying a monthly premium if they or their spouse accumulated enough work periods covered by Medicare taxes.
However, Part B generally has a monthly premium. There may also be deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, depending on the coverage.
Who can apply for Medicaid?
According to official information, the following groups could qualify:
- Adultos con bajos ingresos
- Niños
- Mujeres embarazadas
- Adultos mayores de 65 años
- Personas con discapacidades.
How to apply for Medicaid
The steps you must follow are:
-Create an account on the Health Insurance Marketplace to apply for Medicaid.
-Contact your state's Medicaid office to apply directly with them. You can also call 1-410-786-6842.
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