Medicare contact info — Scottsdale, AZ

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for individuals 65 and older, as well as younger people with certain disabilities and those with End-Stage Renal Disease. It provides coverage for hospital care (Part A), medical services (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D). It's a foundational health insurance for many.

Original Medicare generally does not cover services such as long-term care, most routine dental and vision care, hearing aids, cosmetic surgery, and acupuncture. These are common areas where individuals may need to seek supplemental coverage. It's important to be aware of these exclusions.

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally must be a U.S. citizen or have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five continuous years. You must also be age 65 or older, or be under 65 with a qualifying disability or End-Stage Renal Disease. These are the primary criteria for eligibility.

Your monthly Medicare costs depend on the plans you select and your income level. Part A may be premium-free for many, but Part B typically has a monthly premium that can be higher for those with higher incomes. Part D prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans also have varying premiums. A personalized quote will provide specific cost details.

Medicare Part A, which covers hospital stays, is often premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. However, Medicare Part B, covering doctor visits and outpatient services, typically has a monthly premium that can increase based on your income. Additional plans like Medicare Advantage or Medigap will have their own costs.