Medicare # — Tempe, AZ

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for individuals 65 and older, as well as younger people with certain disabilities and End-Stage Renal Disease. It assists with paying for hospital stays, doctor appointments, and prescription drugs, but it's important to know what it doesn't cover.

Medicare generally doesn't cover long-term custodial care, most dental care, eye exams for glasses, cosmetic surgery, hearing aids, and acupuncture. Understanding these exclusions is important for Tempe residents to ensure they have adequate coverage for all their healthcare needs.

To be eligible for Medicare at age 65, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for at least five years. You also need to have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters), or be married to someone who has. Disability or ESRD are other qualifying conditions.

Your monthly Medicare costs can vary. Part B has a standard premium, but this can be higher for individuals with higher incomes. Prescription drug plans (Part D) have premiums that differ greatly by plan. Your income and the plans you choose will determine your exact monthly expense.

Your actual premium could be higher if your income exceeds certain limits. It's essential to check your specific situation to determine your exact monthly premium.

Medicare Part A is typically premium-free if you or your spouse has worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. However, Medicare Part B, which covers doctor visits and outpatient services, has a monthly premium. So, while parts can be free, the entire program isn't necessarily free.