How Does the Medicare Insurance Agency in Oregon Work?

Congress established Medicare in 1965 as a government health insurance program. It covers persons aged 65 and above and people younger than 65 with specific impairments, and people of any age with irreversible renal failure. While it provides minimal coverage for medical bills, it does not cover all medical expenses or the price of most long-term care.

So, what's actually covered? Continue reading to find out.

What is Covered Under Medicare?

There are two parts to the Original Medicare; Part A and Part B. 

Part A focuses on inpatient hospitals, skilled nursing institutions, and home health care services. Once you've registered in Medicare, you'll automatically receive these benefits and won't have to pay any premiums because you've already paid taxes for at least ten years. You can enroll in Part B when you apply for Part A. The second section includes outpatient doctors' costs and certain medical services and supplies.

Are You Eligible for Medicare?

You're eligible for Medicare if;

• People who are 65 or older and qualify for Social Security or Railroad Retirement payments qualify for the program.

• People are 65 years or more years older and eligible for Social Security or Railroad Retirement Benefits recipients.

• If you're 65 and older (or your spouse), have worked and paid social security taxes for 40 quarters.

• Those who have received disability payments from Social Security for at least two years (24 months).

• End-stage renal disease (kidney disease).

• You are 65 years old and a US citizen or legal immigrant who has resided continuously in the US for five years. 

How Do I Apply for Medicare, and When Should I Do So?

You can enroll in Original Medicare with the help of the following ways;

• Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users 1-800-325-0778), Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 7 PM.

• Apply online at www.SocialSecurity.gov.

• Visit your local Social Security Office and apply.

You can contact RRB (Railroad Retirement Board) at 1-877-772-5772 (TTY users 1-312-751-4701) if you work at a railroad. You can contact them Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 3:30 PM, to speak to an RRB representative.

It is suggested to apply during IEP (Initial Enrollment Period), a 7-month window, for beneficiaries to enroll.

Simpler Horizons is one of the leading medicare insurance agencies in Oregon. Our Medicare licensed insurance agents in Oregon will first identify your medical needs before suggesting a suitable plan. That's why we are one of the reliable names in the medicare health solutions in Oregon.

If you are about to turn 65 or planning to change your Medicare plan, or want to consider a Medicare Advantage plan, get in touch with us today!