Text Version:

Medicare

• Hospital insurance (Part A) helps pay for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility, home health care and hospice
• Medical insurance (Part B) helps pay for doctors' services, outpatient care, medical services and supplies, and some preventive services
• Medical Advantage Plans (Part C) combine Part A, Part B and sometimes Part D (prescription drug) coverage

Notes:

• Medicare available at age 65 even though full retirement age is
  increasing from age 65 to age 67 for retirement and survivor benefits.
• Enrollment for both hospital and medical insurance automatic at 65 for people receiving an annuity but medical insurance may be declined. Coverage can begin earlier if person is totally disabled or has permanent kidney failure.
• If not receiving an annuity, contact Board office before 65 to apply.
  Best time to apply is during 3 months before the month age 65 is reached. Coverage will begin with month age 65 reached.
• Hospital insurance financed by payroll tax on employees and employers-1.45% of all earnings.
• Medical insurance financed by monthly premiums and Federal general revenue funds. Also has $135 deductible.
• Medicare provides basic health care coverage - doesn’t cover all medical expenses and doesn’t cover long-term care.