If you or a family member is new to receiving Medicare, then you likely have a few questions regarding its policies. When it comes to you or your loved one, you will obviously want to know if they are eligible. Here is a little insight in the basics behind who Medicare covers specifically. For any more information not described in this article, please feel free to contact Benistar here.

Medicare Part A refers to hospital insurance. It is generally a wise idea for everyone 65 and older to carry this Part. People who are 65 or older, and are either citizens or permanent residents of the United States are eligible for Medicare Part A. Please be sure to contact Benistar to see if you are currently eligible.

Part B

Medicare Part B is for medical insurance. If you are eligible for part A, you can enroll for Part B. There is no cost to enroll for Medicare part B, but you will have to pay a monthly premium. However, if you are not eligible for Medicare Part A, you can still buy Part B (without having to also buy Part A). This is only allowed if you are 65 or older, and are a U.S. citizen (or a lawfully admitted noncitizen who has lived in the United States for a minimum of 5 years).

Medicare Part C refers to Medicare Advantage plans. If you already received Part A and/or Medicare Part B benefits from a Medicare Advantage company, then you carry Medicare Advantage plan. But if you received those A&B benefits directly from the Government, you can still join a Medicare advantage plan form private companies.

Medicare Part D is for Medicare Prescription Drug coverage. If you are eligible for Medicare Part A or B, then you are eligible for Medicare Part D. If you choose to join, there will be an extra monthly premium for the coverage. If you choose to join, it is best to join as soon as you are eligible (in order to avoid a late enrollment fee).

If any technicalities come up in your case, we at Benistar are here to defend you. With your health and retirement being our best interest, there will be nothing to worry about.