Medicare is a government-funded insurance program for those over 65.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services administers Medicare. Medicare is a government-sponsored health insurance program, primarily for people age 65 and older. Qualifying individuals are eligible for Medicare at 65, even if they do not receive Social Security benefits. Because Medicare is a federal program, the application requirements and processes are the same in Georgia as in any other state.
Instructions
1. Determine your eligibility. Most people are eligible if they (of their spouses) worked in Medicare-covered employment for at least 10 years and are at least 65 years of age. Those under 65 may qualify if they are disabled or have end-stage renal disease.
2. Set up a visit with your local Social Security office. You can find the office nearest you by going to socialsecurity.gov, choosing "Find a Social Security Office" from the menu and entering your zip code. Social Security offices are also listed in the phone book. You will need a certified copy of your birth certificate and a valid picture identification, such as a driver’s license or Georgia ID card.
3. Apply for Medicare Part A. Part A covers inpatient hospital services and is free to all individuals that meet Medicare eligibility requirements. You or the Social Security agent will complete an application that includes your basic personal information, information on past employment, and information on any private or other public insurance you may have.
4. Select whether you want to purchase Medicare Part B. Part B covers outpatient services such as doctor’s and emergency room visits. Recipients pay a monthly fee for Part B ($110.50 as of 2010). Applying for Part B is as simple as checking a box on the Medicare application.
5. Choose whether to participate in Part D. Part D covers prescription medications. You many choose from one of several Part D plans. A list is available on the Medicare website or by calling your local Social Security Administration office. Once you choose a plan, you may submit a Part D paper application, available on the website. Part D recipients pay a monthly fee.
Tags: Social Security, Part covers, Part Part, Part Part covers, your local Social
