Medicare is available to you if you are at least 65 and are eligible to receive Social Security benefits or have been on Social Security Disability Insurance for two years. You may also qualify for Medicare if you have been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease regardless of age and are receiving dialysis or have received a kidney transplant.
Medicare has two parts:
Part A - Hospital Insurance: This part of Medicare is free. Your hospital insurance provides: 60 days of fully covered hospital care, per spell of illness, after you have met a deductible; an additional 30 days of hospital coverage with a daily co-payment; 100 days of skilled nursing facility care; coverage for medically necessary hospital equipment; and in-home skilled nursing care if one is home bound.
Part B - Medical Insurance: This part of Medicare comes with a $45.00 monthly fee. Everyone who is eligible for Medicare will automatically get this coverage. Your medical insurance will help cover the costs of physician fees; clinic visits, and in home skilled nursing cares if one is home bound.
How to apply: Apply for Medicare by calling 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment at your local Social Security office. You also have the option of conducting your appointment over the telephone.
What to do if you are denied: If the Social Security Administration denies your eligibility for Medicare, because you do not qualify for Social Security benefits, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The Medically Needy program may also be available to help you with health care costs, if you learn you are not eligible for SSI because you have more income and resources than are allowed. In addition, you have the right to challenge Medicare reimbursement decisions with which you disagree. You can appeal the decision by contacting your Medicare intermediary (for hospital services) or Medicare carrier (for physician services).
Links:
Department of Human Services
Medical Rights Center
Medicare
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