Medicare/Medicaid Summary

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According to the article “Medicare Made Clear” published by United Health, “the Medicare program helps 43 million Americans get the health care they need.” The large number of Americans being helped by Medicare shows that it is important and very much needed. Being knowledgeable on the topic of Medicare and Medicaid and knowing the different aspects of the programs will be useful for many Americans.
Medicare is a Federal health insurance program which consists of hospital insurance, medical insurance, customizable plans, and prescription drug coverage. Eligibility requirements for Medicare include individuals who are at least 65 years old, disabled individuals who are under the age of 65, and individuals at any age who have End-Stage Renal Disease. End-Stage Renal Disease is defined as permanent kidney failure that requires dialysis or a transplant. To be eligible for Medicare, an individual must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident for five continuous years. Individuals must also be eligible for Social Security benefits with at least ten years of contribution payments. (Crosta)
Medicare Part A is also known as Hospital Insurance. This insurance helps pay for hospital stays, home health care, care in a skilled nursing facility, and certain medical equipment. Also covered under Medicare Part A is a semi-private room; hospital meals; intensive care; drugs, medical supplies, and medical equipment as an inpatient; lab tests, x-rays, and radiation treatment as an inpatient; operating room; and rehabilitation services. Payroll taxes are used to cover Medicare Part A costs; therefore a monthly premium is not paid. Cost sharing, such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurances, may be required. If an individual is eligible for Medi...

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...ayments. However, pregnant women, children under 18, and hospital or nursing home patients who contribute most of their income to institutional care are excluded from cost sharing. Also exempt from copayments are emergency services and family planning services. (Costa)
In conclusion, Medicare and Medicaid are available to the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals or families. They are both supported by the government. Each of them has their own characteristics, but their similarity is that they are in place to offer assistance to people in need.

Works Cited

"Medicare Made Clear." AARP Health Care. United Health. Web. 25 Nov 2013. .
Crosta, Peter. "What Is Medicare/Medicaid?." MNT. N.p.. Web. 25 Nov 2013. .

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