What is Medicare?

Medicare is a health insurance program provided by the federal government for qualifying individuals, including people age 65 and older, those with certain disabilities, and individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Some people may confuse Medicaid and Medicare programs. The primary difference is that Medicaid is a needs-based insurance program while Medicare isn’t. Your income isn’t a determining factor for Medicare qualification. There are monthly premiums for certain parts of Medicare.

Additionally, Medicare does have some limitations and regulations on what it’ll cover for health care costs. Read on to learn more about each part of Medicare, what’s covered, and how to enroll.​

State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Programs (SHIP)

Staffed by volunteers, these programs provide seniors with one-one-one counseling to help them take full advantage of their benefits. Although not a source of eldercare funding, SHIPs are free, state counseling services that help seniors understand their Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap (Medicare Supplemental Insurance) and Medicaid benefits.