Medicare contact info — Buffalo, NY

Medicare Part A, which covers inpatient hospital stays, is typically premium-free for most people who have paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. However, Medicare Part B, which covers doctor visits and outpatient services, has a monthly premium. This premium can be higher for individuals with higher incomes. Additional costs apply for prescription drug plans (Part D) and supplemental insurance.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease. It helps cover the costs of essential healthcare services, including hospitalizations, physician visits, and prescription drugs. It's a critical component of healthcare for many Americans.

Medicare generally does not cover long-term care services, routine vision care (like eye exams and glasses), most dental care and procedures, cosmetic surgery, hearing aids, and routine foot care. Knowing these exclusions is important for planning your healthcare budget here in Buffalo.

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for at least five consecutive years. You must also be 65 years or older, or under 65 with a qualifying disability or End-Stage Renal Disease. These are the primary eligibility factors.

Your monthly Medicare costs depend on the specific parts of Medicare you enroll in and your income level. While Part A is often premium-free, Part B has a standard monthly premium that can be adjusted upwards for individuals with higher incomes. Part D prescription drug plans and any supplemental plans will also have their own premiums. We can help you get an estimate.

Individuals with higher incomes pay an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA), meaning their Part B premium will be higher than the standard rate. Your exact cost depends on your tax filings.