Medicare services — St. Louis, MO

Medicare is generally not free after 65 for most people. While Medicare Part A is often premium-free if you or your spouse have paid Medicare taxes for a qualifying period, Medicare Part B typically has a monthly premium. This premium can be influenced by your income. For St. Louis residents, supplemental plans like Part D for prescription drugs also come with their own monthly costs.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger people with certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease. It covers hospital stays (Part A), medical services like doctor visits and outpatient care (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D). Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) offer an alternative way to receive benefits through private insurance companies.

Medicare has specific coverage limitations. It generally does not cover long-term custodial care, most routine dental services, eye exams for glasses, hearing aids, cosmetic surgery, or routine foot care. For St. Louis residents, this means planning for potential out-of-pocket expenses for services such as dentures, hearing aids, or ongoing care needs not included in Original Medicare.

To be eligible for Medicare, you must generally be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for at least five consecutive years. You must also be at least 65 years old. Alternatively, you may qualify if you have a disability or End-Stage Renal Disease and meet specific age and residency criteria, ensuring access to healthcare.