What is Medicare?

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Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed for only people who are 65 or older. People who are under 65 are not able to join Medicare, unless they have been on Social Security disability for more than 24 months, and have surpassed the waiting period for Medicare coverage. Additionally, people who can also benefit from this program are people with certain disabilities such as end-stage renal disease, and other permanent disabilities.

Similar to Social Security, Medicare is an entitlement program that most U.S. citizens become eligible for by working and paying taxes for a minimum period of time; which is typically 40 quarters (10 years). Most people join the Medicare program after turning 65 years old, or when they retire and leave their group health insurance.