Medicare isn’t exclusive to seniors ages 65 and over. Medicare also offers coverage to those who are disabled, as well as individuals suffering from certain medical conditions such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). However, the timeline for coverage isn’t immediate.
How Long Will I Need To Wait After Getting Social Security Benefits?
Qualifying for Medicare as a result of disability requires getting disability benefits through Social Security. Once you start receiving Social Security disability benefits, you will be eligible for Medicare after receiving them for 24 months.
Once you’re eligible for Medicare, you don’t have to do anything on your part to get it. Medicare enrollment is automatic.
What Can I Expect From My Medicare Coverage?
There are different types of Medicare coverage, and these are available individually. Medicare is broken into parts – Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.
As someone who is automatically enrolled, you will have Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. Part A covers inpatient treatments and services, as well as room and board for inpatient stays.
Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, such as screenings, preventive care, and exams. It also covers medically necessary devices such as oxygen equipment and wheelchairs.
What If I Want Part C Or Part D Coverage?
If you want to get Part C (also called Medicare Advantage) and/or Part D, you will need to sign up for this coverage on your own. This is because these plans are sold exclusively through private insurance. Medicare Advantage is a combination of inpatient and outpatient coverage, as well as dental, vision, and hearing. Sometimes, a Medicare Advantage plan will include drug coverage. Part D covers medications.
What If I’m Getting Social Security Benefits Because Of ALS Or ESRD?
Individuals who have ALS are automatically enrolled sooner than other Social Security benefits recipients. If you are disabled due to ALS, your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage will begin the very first month you start receiving Social Security disability benefits.
If you receive Social Security benefits because you have ESRD, your Medicare enrollment is not automatic, though you can still get it while under the age of 65.
Learn More About Your Medicare Benefits Today
At Medicare With Jake, we help all individuals with understanding and enrolling in Medicare. We want to help you make the most out of your eligibility, so you can get the best coverage possible. Call us today at (833) NOW-JAKE to learn more.
