Among the benefit programs of the government, the most applicable one for the retirees is the medicare benefits. However, most of us do not understand the fundamentals of the medicare program. How does the government establish it? How can we benefit from it? This write-up will try to educate those who are in need of such basic and essential information about medicare benefit. This will also serve as a guide for those who are planning to retire and apply for the said program.

Primarily, the medicare is one of the products of former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Great Society” idea which was signed into a law on July 30, 1965 as an amendment to the Social Security laws. Hence, this plan aims to impart the senior citizen of the U.S. a stable and effective healthcare system which will greatly support their medical needs. But, the medicare benefits can also be given to those individuals who are disabled and not only to those who have reached the retirement age of 65 years provided that they have met the requirements set by the Social Security Agency.

In order for a disabled individual to qualify for the medicaid benefits, he or she is required to file an initial claim for title II benefits to the nearest Social Security Administration office. Title II is under the title 2 of the Social Security Act which is commonly known as the social security disability benefits (SSD). This benefit is handed over to disabled individuals who fail to meet the standard income.

Once the claimants’ applications for SSD benefits were approved, they will be able to receive their medicaid benefits after two years prior to the date of approval. This would mean that they will be ensured of financial support from the government for their daily basic needs.

On the other hand, medicare benefits are given to those who are disabled or have already reached their retirement age regardless of their income. This is different from supplemental security income and medicaid benefits which are basically needs-based programs. The medicare has the following coverage 1) Medicare part A – covers hospital visits and staying in nursing homes; 2) Medicare part B – covers outpatient care and services which may include doctor visitations, laboratory reports and x-rays; and 3) Medicare part D – covers prescription drugs. This, however, is only available for those who are already eligible for medicare part A & B benefits.

The medicare program of the government has some complicated aspects. If the petitioner still finds the process of applying for the said benefits, then, it is very much recommendable to hire the expert assistance of a qualified social security attorney to help them in pursuing their claims. This will ensure them of acquiring their much needed financial support from the government.