US Medicare enrollment dates and benefits

Find out when Medicare enrollment is in the United States , dates, benefits, requirements, costs and types of Medicare. A quick guide to avoid missing out on this medical program.

Currently, Medicare health plans cover more than 61 million Americans. Nearly 4 in 10 Medicare consumers are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.

What is Medicare?

This is a federal health insurance program for people 65 years of age or older, as well as those under 65 years of age with certain health conditions. It is also divided into several parts: Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

When are Medicare enrollment and enrollment dates?

Typically, when you turn 65 , you will begin your initial enrollment period, which lasts 7 months, beginning 3 months before you turn 65 and ending 3 months after you turn 65.

Between January 1 and March 31 of each year is the general enrollment period . This is known as the general enrollment period, and your coverage starts the month after you sign up. You may have to pay a late enrollment penalty if you don’t qualify for a special enrollment period.

In a number of situations, you may be able to enroll in Plans A and B without paying a late enrollment penalty. Special Enrollment is available for a limited time only. If you do not enroll during this period, you will have to wait until the next General Enrollment Period and possibly pay a monthly late enrollment penalty.

Benefits of being enrolled in the Federal Health Program

The benefits covered by your Medicare are varied and will depend on the type of plan you are in: Plan A, B, C, and D. Below are some of the benefits you may receive:

• Plan A : Helps pay for hospital services, hospice care, home health care, and skilled nursing facility care.
• Plan B : Assists with payments for your medical visits, medical equipment, preventive services, and home health care.
• Plan C ( Medicare Advantage ): It is a plan authorized by Medicare, but from a private company, which is given as an alternative for health and medication coverage.
• Plan D (Drug Coverage) : Serves to cover your medical costs.

For more information and assistance, you can visit the official Medicare website: Medicare.gov