Insurance Issues Affecting the Elderly

Some elderly people require regular medical care, including regular prescription medications. Some have difficulty affording the healthcare services they need. Insurance helps pay the bills.

Accessing Insurance

• Many people access health insurance through their jobs but many elderly people have retired from the work force. Some purchase insurance plans on their own but such plans can be costly and may not cover all healthcare services elderly people need.

Medicare

• Most people, ages 65 and older, qualify for Medicare. Medicare covers inpatient and outpatient medical treatment and prescription medications. Recipients must pay monthly premiums for Medicare Parts B and D but those with low incomes may qualify for assistance paying those premiums.

Prescription Drugs

• Medicare Part D covers prescriptions drugs. Recipients can select from several different plans. Not all drugs are included on all plans and recipients must pay a co-pay for prescriptions. If an elderly person takes many prescriptions regularly or if he needs drugs not covered on his plan, the cost may be significant.