What is Medicare?

Medicare is health insurance for:

  • People 65 or older
  • Certain people under 65 with disabilities
  • People of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant
  • People diagnosed with ALS Lou Gehrig’s Disease
This program is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. At age 65, if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you qualify for Medicare Part A which helps cover hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care and some home health care options. Once you retire or are no longer working, you become eligible for Medicare Part B which covers doctor bills, outpatient care, medical supplies and preventive services. Part A and Part B are also referred to as Original Medicare. Once you are enrolled in Original Medicare, you may decide you need or would like more services covered like dental, vision and wellness plans, as Original Medicare only covers a portion. This is where CSG Medicare will be able to assist you.
What is Medicare

Is Medicare mandatory?

Medicare is not necessarily mandatory but it is a benefit you’ve paid for through taxes during your working years. Most people pay no premium for Medicare Part A. Everyone pays a monthly premium for Medicare Part B. While you may choose to stick with your medical insurance through your employer or spouse’s employer after turning 65, waiting to sign up for Medicare Part B may result in a higher premium later on.

What if Original Medicare doesn’t cover the services I need?

Original Medicare does not cover things like vision, dental and wellness plans. For this advanced coverage you may decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan (sometimes called Medicare Part C) as well as a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (sometimes referred to as Part D). There are many different Medicare Advantage Plans to choose from.

An experienced agent of CSG Medicare can walk you through your options and find a plan that works for your circumstances and your budget.

Medicare Plans

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period: October 15th – December 7th