Medicare was established in 1966 under the Social Security administration as national health insurance program.
Medicaid offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare like nursing home and personal care services. It is both a Federal and a State program that helps with the costs for people who don’t have the resources or income to pay for it.
Medigap is private insurance that provides coverage for things like co-pays and helps fill the gap for things Medicare doesn’t fully pay like skilled nursing, home health care, ambulance, durable medical equipment, among other things.
You become eligible for Medicare when you turn 65 years old. You are enrolled automatically if you’re taking Social Security. If you’re not, you’ve got to call 800-772-1213. Part A is free if you have worked for at least 40 quarters which is 10 years. If not, you’ll have to pay a premium for it. Part B always has a monthly premium associated with it. Part D which is for subscription drugs requires you sign up whether you’re enrolled in A and B or not.