Introduction to Medicare
                     INTRODUCTION 
TO MEDICARE
Introduction to Medicare
◦ Medicare is the federal health insurance 
program created in 1965 for people ages 65 
and over, regardless of income, medical 
history, or health status. The program was 
expanded in 1972 to cover certain people 
under age 65 who have a long-term disability. 
Source: www.kff.org
Characteristics of People on Medicare
◦ Many people on Medicare live with health 
problems, including multiple chronic conditions 
and limitations in their activities of daily living, 
and many beneficiaries live on modest 
incomes. 
Source: www.kff.org
What Medicare Covers?
◦ Medicare covers many health services, 
including inpatient and outpatient hospital 
care, physician services, and prescription 
drugs. Medicare benefits are organized and 
paid for in different ways:
Source: www.kff.org
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
◦ Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a 
skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some 
home health care
Source: www.kff.org
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
◦ Part B covers certain doctors' services, 
outpatient care, medical supplies, and 
preventive services.
Source: www.kff.org
Medicare Part D (prescription drug 
coverage)
◦ Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs 
(including many recommended shots or 
vaccines).
Source: www.kff.org
How does Medicare work?
◦ With Medicare, you have options in how you 
get your coverage. Once you enroll, you’ll need 
to decide how you’ll get your Medicare 
coverage.
Source: www.kff.org
Medicare Advantage
◦ In 2018, one-third of all beneficiaries were 
enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans rather 
than traditional Medicare, some of whom also 
have coverage from a former employer/union 
or Medicaid. 
◦ Medicare Advantage plans are required to limit 
beneficiaries’ out-of-pocket spending for in-
network services covered under Medicare Parts 
A and B to no more than $6,700, and may also 
cover supplemental benefits not covered by 
Medicare, such as eyeglasses, dental services, 
and hearing aids.
Source: www.kff.org
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