Your Guide to Medicare and Medicaid
While a number of employers offer health insurance for their employees, not all companies can afford to participate in a group healthcare plan. Luckily, there are a number of federally and state-funded programs established to help the uninsured, elderly, and disabled. If you have a disability, you may be eligible for Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid benefits.
Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program available for individuals who are 65 years of age or older, individuals under age 65 with certain disabilities, and all individuals with end-stage renal disease. There are three basic components of Medicare, including the following:
- Part A is hospital insurance that covers inpatient care, skilled nursing care, and a portion of hospice and home healthcare services. Medicare Part A usually does not require the participant to pay a premium.
- Part B medical insurance covers outpatient care, doctor’s visits, and some medical services not covered under part A, such as physical or occupational therapy. Part B may also provide coverage for home healthcare and does require a monthly premium.
- Prescription Drug Coverage is available for all Medicare participants and is designed to lower the cost of prescription drugs. Like Part B, prescription drug coverage requires the payment of a monthly premium.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a state-funded insurance program that offers coverage for low-income families, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. While eligibility requirements vary by state, most people under age 65 with individual incomes up to $15,000 per year will qualify for Medicaid by 2014. Medicaid provides coverage for a number of services including but not limited to:
- Inpatient and outpatient hospital services.
- Laboratory and X-ray services.
- Doctor’s visits including for mental health.
- Dental and vision appointments.
- Family planning services.
- Skilled nursing care and hospice.
- Home healthcare and respite care.
- Prescription drugs.
- Physical, speech, and occupational therapy.
If you’re struggling to obtain Medicare or Medicaid coverage, Social Security lawyer, Todd M. Berk, Esq. is here to help. For more information on our practice areas, contact our Philadelphia firm at (215) 687-4432. Todd M. Berk, Esq. is also an experienced SSI and personal injury lawyer.
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