Medicare contact number — Little Rock, AR

Medicare is not entirely free after 65 for everyone. While Part A is often premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, Part B typically has a monthly premium. Additional costs can also apply to Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (prescription drug) plans, which vary by provider and your specific needs in Little Rock.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for individuals 65 and older, as well as younger people with certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease. It provides coverage for hospital stays (Part A), medical services and outpatient care (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D). Many also choose Part C (Medicare Advantage) for bundled coverage.

Original Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care, most dental care, routine eye exams for glasses, cosmetic surgery, acupuncture, and hearing aids. It's important to check if a Medicare Advantage plan you're considering offers additional benefits for these services, as Original Medicare typically does not.

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or have lawful permanent residency, be at least 65 years old (or qualify due to disability or ESRD), and have paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years if you're applying for premium-free Part A. You must also be a resident of the U.S.

Your actual Part B premium could be higher if your income exceeds certain thresholds. Premiums for Part C and Part D plans are set by the individual insurance providers and can vary widely.