Supplement medicare — Spokane, WA

Original Medicare, which includes Part A and Part B, has costs associated with it. Part A is often premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. However, Part B usually has a monthly premium, and there are deductibles and coinsurance for services. Supplement plans can help manage these out-of-pocket expenses.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 or older. It also covers younger people with certain disabilities and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. It helps pay for doctor visits, hospital stays, and other health care services, but it doesn't cover everything on its own.

Medicare generally doesn't cover long-term care (custodial care), dental care, eye exams for glasses, cosmetic surgery, acupuncture, or routine hearing tests and aids. These are common areas where people in Spokane often seek supplemental insurance to fill the gaps in their coverage.

Generally, to be eligible for Medicare, you must be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for at least five years. You must also be at least 65 years old, or be under 65 with a qualifying disability or End-Stage Renal Disease. These are the basic qualifications for enrolling.

Your monthly Medicare cost depends on the parts of Medicare you choose and your income. Part B typically has a standard monthly premium, which can be higher for individuals with higher incomes. Part D (prescription drugs) also has a premium that varies by plan. Supplement plans have their own premiums too.