Medicare savings program — St. Paul, MN

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger people with specific disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease. It helps cover hospital stays (Part A) and medical services like doctor visits and outpatient care (Part B). Many St. Paul residents also choose Part C (Medicare Advantage) or Part D (prescription drug coverage) for broader benefits. It's designed to reduce healthcare expenses.

Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care, most dental services, routine eye exams for glasses, cosmetic surgery, hearing aids, or alternative therapies like acupuncture. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited benefits in these areas. If you live in St. Paul and need these services, you'll likely need to purchase separate insurance or pay out-of-pocket. We can help you understand what's excluded.

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for at least five years and be 65 years old. Alternatively, you can be eligible if you have a qualifying disability and have received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months. Another requirement involves having worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years to qualify for premium-free Part A.

Missing your Medicare enrollment deadline can lead to late enrollment penalties, increasing your monthly premiums for both Part B and Part D for as long as you have coverage. You might also have gaps in your healthcare coverage. It's important to enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period or the annual Open Enrollment period. We can help you understand these deadlines and avoid penalties.