Health Care for Senior Citizens

Once you are a senior citizen, health care takes on a more important role in your life. Many senior citizens have to spend a large percentage of their income on health-related expenses. With programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, you can get help with some of your expenses from the federal government.

Types

• Medicare is a program that is available to any senior citizen that is 65. Disabled persons under the age of 65 can also use this program. Medicaid is another program provided by the federal government that can help senior citizens. This program is not available to all senior citizens; Medicaid is only available to those who have a significant financial need. A senior citizen can also choose to take advantage of a private health insurance policy to fill in any gaps in coverage.

Eligibility

• With Medicare, you are automatically enrolled once you reach the age of 65. If you are disabled, you can also apply for coverage. To qualify for Medicaid, you have to fill out information about how much money you make and about your assets so that Medicaid can gauge your financial need. Private insurance companies are not dependent on age or income, but you may have to pass a medical exam to qualify.

Features

• Medicare features different plans that provide various benefits. You automatically are enrolled in Part A, which provides hospital coverage. You can choose to get Part B coverage, which helps with doctor bills. Medicare pays for 80 percent of covered costs. Medicaid can provide coverage for any type of medical needs as long as you qualify. Medicaid makes payments directly to the medical provider for you. Private insurance companies give you the most options and allow you to pick a policy that meets your needs.

Benefits

• One of the benefits of Medicare is that it provides widely available health care to senior citizens. You can essentially get 80 percent of your hospital bills covered for free. You can also buy doctor coverage for a low monthly premium. The benefit of Medicaid is that it provides free health care for those who cannot afford any type of health insurance. The advantage of private insurance plans is that they give consumers choices. You can have more control over coverage options and how much you pay in premiums.

Considerations

• It is important to consider the different health care options available for you before you reach retirement age. By doing a little bit of research and planning, you can find the option that best meets your needs and situation. When you turn 65, you will have to make the decision whether you want Medicare Part B or whether you want to buy a private Medicare Advantage plan for your health insurance.