Medicare.gov - Medicare Enrollment

Medicare is a health insurance program administered by the United States government, covering people who are either age 65 and over, or who meet other special criteria.

In general, individuals are eligible for Medicare if they (or their spouse) worked for at least 10 years in Medicare-covered employment and are at least 65 years old and are a citizen or permanent resident of the United States of America.

Individuals who are under 65 years old can also be eligible for Medicare if they are disabled or have end stage renal disease. People under 65 and disabled must be receiving disability benefits from either Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board for at least 24 months before automatic enrollment occurs.

Medicare covers certain medical services and items in hospitals and other settings. Some are covered under Medicare Part A, and some are covered under Medicare Part B. As long as you have both Part A and Part B, these services and items are covered whether you have the Original Medicare Plan, or you belong to a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO).

 Medicare.gov is the official U.S. site for people with Medicare.