Medicare cost — St. Louis, MO

Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older. It also covers younger people with specific disabilities and those with End-Stage Renal Disease. The program helps pay for hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and other medical services, providing essential healthcare access for many Americans.

Medicare typically does not cover services such as long-term custodial care, most dental services, routine vision exams for eyeglasses, hearing aids, cosmetic surgery, and routine foot care. Being aware of these exclusions is important for planning your healthcare needs and considering supplemental insurance options in St. Louis.

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident for at least five years, be 65 years or older (or under 65 with specific disabilities), and have a qualifying work history where you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters).

Your monthly Medicare costs depend on the plan you select and your income. Part A usually has no premium if you've worked and paid taxes for at least 10 years. Part B has a standard monthly premium, with higher costs for individuals with higher incomes. Part D and Medicare Advantage plans have their own premiums and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

No, not everyone pays the same amount for Medicare. Individuals with higher incomes pay an additional amount known as the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA), based on their previous tax returns.