Affordable Care Act
With the Affordable Care Act (popularly known as Obamacare) in effect, it seems provisions and requirements are changing on a daily basis. It is important that you are aware of these changes and how they affect you. Review your benefits and how they have been impacted by legislation at least once a year. You can do this through the National Council of Aging’s free Benefits Checkup service. Below are some resources to help you better understand your medical insurance and the options available to you.
- View the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in full
- Summary of the Obamacare provisions
- 11 facts about the Affordable Care Act
Medicare
Medicare is a federally sponsored healthcare program designed especially for seniors. Those covered by Medicare have paid into a trust fund set up by the government, which pays the medical bills of those enrolled in the program. Overall, Medicare doesn’t cover every part of the bill — the patient is still responsible for deductibles and monthly premiums, and Medicare can refuse to cover certain treatments. Any U.S. citizen over the age of 65 who has paid into the Social Security system is eligible for Medicare, regardless of income, as well as any U.S. citizen with end stage renal disease or disabilities. Because the program is federally run, coverage is uniform throughout the country.
Medicare is not to be confused with Medicaid, which is a state and federal assistance program designed for low-income families.
