At Leon Health, patients often ask us how they can check their eligibility for Medicare. If you have questions about whether it’s the right time for you to enroll in Medicare, just ask us. We’re here to guide you.
Medicare is available to those who are age 65 or older. You are also eligible for Medicare if you are:
- Younger than 65 and diagnosed with a qualifying disability.
- Younger than 65 and you receive disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board for a minimum of 24 months.
- Diagnosed with end-stage renal (kidney) disease, permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis, or a kidney transplant.
- A disabled federal, state, or local government employee who is not eligible for Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits. In this case, you might qualify for Medicare 24 months after you qualify for disability.
There are two different parts to the Original Medicare – Part A and Part B.
Medicare Part A covers hospital services and Medicare Part B covers medical services.
There are additional Medicare options, including Medicare Advantage plans (also called Part C), if you participate in or are eligible for the Original Medicare plan. Part C plans are bundled plans that give you added coverage benefits. You get hospital and medical coverage, but you may also get additional coverage such as drug coverage (Part D), dental, hearing, or vision. You can learn more about Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D coverage.
You are eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A if you are age 65 or older and you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least ten years. You can get Part A at age 65 without having to pay premiums if:
- You receive retirement benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board.
- You are eligible to receive Social Security or Railroad benefits, but you have not yet filed for them.
- You or your spouse had Medicare-covered government employment.
Next Steps
If you are interested in determining your eligibility, you can use the Medicare eligibility estimator on Medicare.gov. You can also use it to get an estimate on your premium.
If you have any questions, we’re right here, ready to help. Are you ready to talk to one of our specialists about Medicare? Please call us at 305.541.5366 to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Medicare plans offered through Leon Health.
