How to Get Medicare at the Age of 59

Medicare is government health insurance that usually is available only to people over the age of 65. There are a few exceptions to the age rule that allow people younger than 65 to enroll in the Medicare program. These three exceptions are serious conditions that would enable you to get Medicare at the age of 59.

Instructions

• 1

  Receive Social Security disability benefits for 24 months and you will be qualified for Medicare Part A. To qualify for Social Security disability you must meet several qualifications, including making less than $1,000 per month and not being able to work with what the administration deems a severe condition. You must have medical documentation to back up your story.

• 2

  Receive Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for 24 months. You will be qualified for Medicare Part A if you do. To qualify for Railroad Retirement Board disability you must be permanently disabled by the board's definition. That means a medical diagnosis that prevents you from working, according to the Railroad Retirement Board website.

• 3

  Receive a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease, which will make you automatically eligible for Medicare benefits. End-state renal disease or permanent kidney failure is defined by Medicare as needing a kidney transplant or requiring regular dialysis.

• 4

  Meet one of the three disability conditions. You will be eligible to enroll in Medicare Part A at no cost, but you must pay to enroll in Medicare Part B. Medicare Part A covers hospital care, home health care and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers medical insurance like doctor services and outpatient care.