Medicare is an important benefit for people 65 and older and those with disabilities. It provides the security of insurance protection as well as affordable coverage superior to marketplace premiums, and the ability to receive care from any healthcare provider who accepts Medicare.
Protection
As with any insurance, Medicare brings you the security and protection that comes with being prepared for emergencies. Whether you take medication every day or are just maintaining your insurance status, you need to be prepared for any eventuality. When it comes to healthcare, it pays to be protected. Medical bills are a leading cause of bankruptcy in this country, so putting a plan in place to help cover possible or anticipated medical bills is a crucial step to protecting your financial future.
Even with younger folks, Medicare can be beneficial. Medicare is available to people under 65 who have been receiving disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board for at least 24 months. People with disabilities have predictable and unpredictable medical expenses brought on by their regular course of treatment, durable medical equipment maintenance, medications, and any changes that may happen. These people are also good candidates for long-term care as they get older. Having Medicare to take care of a good portion of their inpatient and outpatient medical expenses is a form of protection that prepares them for the future.
Affordable Coverage
Medicare is administered by the Social Security Administration and sponsored by payroll taxes. This national program makes it possible for millions of Americans to receive affordable healthcare that they would not otherwise have had access to. Once people no longer have health coverage through their employer, they are stuck living with expensive marketplace coverage. Medicare offers relief from these high premiums.
Most people receive Part A without having to pay premiums. Premium-free Part A is available to people who have worked or whose spouse worked for at least 40 calendar quarters while paying taxes to Social Security. You can also receive this benefit if you qualify due to having received disability benefits for at least 24 months, if you had Medicare-covered government employment, or if you are already eligible for retirement benefits at least four months before age 65.
Nationwide Care
If you have Medicare, you can receive care from any healthcare provider who accepts Medicare. You are not restricted to a network of providers as in most marketplace health insurance plans. This is highly beneficial for anyone who leaves home. You don’t have to worry about receiving healthcare when you are on vacation within the United States or while you are at work or visiting family members out of state. With Medicare, you are covered.
The reliable care made available by Medicare is a source of ease and peace of mind for you. You don’t need to worry about being unable to see a specialist for any conditions you develop over time. As long as you see a provider who accepts Medicare, you will be able to receive affordable care.