When being faced with the transition into Medicare, the choices can seem overwhelming. Different types of Medicare plans help pay for such things as inpatient hospital care, outpatient services, doctors visits, prescription drugs, home health, the list goes on and on depending on what health plan you choose. Have no fear! As complicated as it all may sound, once you make yourself familiar with all the parts of Medicare, deciding what is best for you and your healthcare needs can be a piece of cake!
When you apply for Medicare, you will automatically be enrolled in Part A. Part A is part of Original Medicare and is a fee for service program that is offered directly through the federal government.
When it comes to premiums for Medicare Part A, you most likely will not have to pay if you or your spouse have worked and paid payroll taxes for 40 quarters, which is 10 taxable years. If you are a U.S. Citizen or resident who has not worked enough quarters, and you cannot qualify through a spouse, you may be able to buy Part A coverage. You must meet your deductible each benefit period before Medicare will cover any of your hospitalization costs. The Part A deductible for the 2019 plan year is $1,364. Part A pays about 80% of your Medicare approved amount, which is the cost that Medicare determines is reasonable for the care you have received.