Medicare can seem as complicated as a maze.
Medicare, signed into law in 1965 by President Johnson, offers health care to disabled and elderly Americans. Medicare, however, is notoriously complicated, often referred to as a maze. Understanding the different parts and what they cover seems daunting, but once you get a quick overview, Medicare is much easier to grasp.
Part A
If it involves a hospital or staying over night, it's probably under Part A. This includes normal inpatient hospital care. Part A also includes up to 100 days in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) per benefit period. In addition to the benefits above, some home health care and hospice care is covered under Part A as well.
Part A Costs
If you have worked in the U.S. and paid into Medicare for 10 years or more, Part A is free. If you haven't, you may still qualify for Part A, but at an additional cost. Many services, however, will have coinsurances attached to them. Under original Medicare, you will pay 20 percent, and Medicare will pay 80 of your medical expenses as of 2010.
Part B
Part B covers your doctors' services. This includes general doctor visits, excluding check-ups, and covered preventive services. X-rays, lab tests, and various therapies such as speech, occupational and physical therapy fall under this. Durable medical equipment, such as CPAP machines or oxygen tanks, are covered when rented from a Medicare-certified supplier. Ambulance services are also covered under Part B.
Part B Cost
Part B is not free. You will have to pay a monthly premium. You will also have to meet an annual deductible, and for most services, there are coinsurances. Under original Medicare, you will pay 20 percent, and Medicare will pay 80 of your medical expenses.
Ways to Get Part A and Part B
Parts A and B are available through original Medicare. However, you can also receive these services through a Medicare Advantage plan, which are private health plans. Medicare Advantage plans must offer at least the same benefits as Original Medicare, but many offer more, such as dental and vision care. However, Medicare Advantage plans often come at a higher cost with different restrictions.
Eligibility and Limitations
Each Medicare Part A & B service has its own requirements for eligibility and limits regarding how long the services last. One should examine this information carefully before accepting any service.
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