Medicare company — St. Paul, MN

For most people, Medicare isn't entirely free. You'll likely pay monthly premiums for Part B, and potentially Part D. There are also deductibles and coinsurance for services. However, if you've worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you can often get premium-free Part A.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. It helps cover costs for hospital stays (Part A), doctor visits and outpatient care (Part B), prescription drugs (Part D), and managed care plans (Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage).

Medicare generally doesn't cover things like routine dental care, eye exams for glasses, hearing aids, long-term care (custodial care), cosmetic surgery, or most experimental treatments. These are often covered by supplemental plans or Medicare Advantage plans, but not by Original Medicare itself.

The primary requirements for Medicare eligibility are age (65 or older), disability (receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months), or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). You also generally need to be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for at least five years.

The cost varies. Most people pay a standard monthly premium for Part B, which can change annually. If your income is higher, you might pay more. Part D premiums also vary widely by plan. Costs for deductibles and coinsurance apply to services.

The standard Part B premium is around that amount, but it can be higher if your income is above a certain threshold. Some people may qualify for premium assistance, and Part A is often premium-free.