Medicare savings program — Providence, RI

Medicare is federal health insurance primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger people with specific disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease. It's divided into parts: Part A for hospital care, Part B for medical services, Part C (Medicare Advantage) which bundles benefits, and Part D for prescription drugs. We can break down what each part means for you.

Medicare typically does not cover long-term custodial care, most dental services, routine eye exams for eyeglasses, hearing aids, cosmetic surgery, and routine foot care. It's important to be aware of these exclusions when planning your healthcare. We can discuss supplemental insurance options that might cover some of these services.

To qualify for Medicare, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for at least five years. You must be 65 or older, or younger if you have a qualifying disability or End-Stage Renal Disease. Furthermore, you or your spouse must have worked and paid Medicare taxes for a minimum of 10 years. We'll help verify your eligibility.

Your monthly Medicare expenses depend on your chosen coverage. Part A is often free for eligible individuals. Part B has a standard premium, which can increase for higher earners. Part D premiums vary by plan and prescription needs. We can provide an estimate of these costs based on your specific circumstances in Providence.

No, the monthly premium for Medicare Part B is not the same for everyone. While there's a standard premium amount, individuals with higher incomes pay an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) in addition to the standard premium. We can help you understand if this applies to your situation in Rhode Island.

Medicare Part A, which covers inpatient hospital stays, is often premium-free if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. However, Medicare Part B, covering doctor visits and outpatient services, generally has a monthly premium. We can help you determine your specific Part A eligibility and estimate your Part B costs in Providence.