Medicare is a federal health insurance program that helps you pay for your medical expenses. Medicare includes Part A for hospital insurance, Part B for medical insurance, and Part D for prescription drug coverage.

• What is Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance?
  Medicare Part A is free if you are 65 years of age or older and you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years while working. It is also free if you are younger than 65, have a disability, and have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments for at least 2 years (24 months). Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing home care, home health, and hospice care. There is a deductible to use Part A services.
• What is Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance?
  Medicare Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient services. You must pay a monthly premium for Part B coverage. Most people will pay the standard Part B premium amount, which is $174.70 per month in 2024. Some people who get Social Security and have their Medicare premiums taken out of their monthly benefits may pay somewhat less.
• What is Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage?
  If you have Medicare Part A or B, you can get Medicare Part D to help cover the cost of your prescription medications. You may buy a prescription drug plan that will pay for some, but not all, of your prescription drug costs.

How do I join or get more information about Medicare?

To join Medicare, contact Social Security. To get more information about Medicare benefits, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). If you are a TTY user, call 1-877-486-2048.