Medicare contact info — St. Paul, MN

Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 or older, though younger people with certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease can also qualify. It helps cover costs for hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. It's designed to provide essential health coverage for seniors across Minnesota.

Generally, Medicare doesn't cover routine dental care, eye exams for glasses, cosmetic surgery, hearing aids, long-term care like nursing home stays, and most foot care. Knowing these exclusions helps you plan for supplemental insurance or out-of-pocket expenses.

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for at least five years. You must also be either 65 or older, under 65 with a qualifying disability, or have End-Stage Renal Disease. Meeting these criteria is the first step to enrollment.

Your monthly Medicare costs depend on the plan you choose and your income. For Original Medicare, there's a premium for Part B, and potentially for Part D (prescription drugs). Many people in St. Paul find that supplemental plans can help manage these costs.

Some individuals with higher incomes pay more through an adjustment called the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). Your specific cost in St. Paul will be based on your circumstances.

While Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) has monthly premiums for most people, Part A is often premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. Part B always has a monthly premium, which can vary. Understanding these costs is important for your budget in St. Paul.