What Are Some Health Care Plans for the Elderly?

There are a number of health care plans designed for elderly people in the United States. Some of these programs are government mandates given to citizens at the age of 65, while others utilize private companies to fulfill the health care needs of the oldest Americans.

• Prescription drugs

Medicare Part A

• Medicare Part A is one of the most prevalent health care plans for the elderly. This government plan covers any citizen over the age of 65 with hospital stays and short periods in a skilled nursing facility.

Medicare Part B

• Part B of the Medicare insurance program allows for outpatient medical care. This plan covers physician and nursing care, a variety of procedures, and medical equipment such as canes and wheelchairs.

Medicare Advantage

• Under the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, elderly patients have the right to transfer the costs of Medicare to a private insurance program, which may offer a more comprehensive package. This system is called the Medicare + Choice, or Part C, program.

Prescription Drug Benefits

• The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 created a system of prescription drug programs for elderly patients, to help defer the costs of medications.

AARP

• AARP provides health insurance to approximately seven million people nationwide. The program, operating as an HMO with UnitedHealth Group and a PPO with Aetna, covers prescription drugs as well as standard health insurance.