Medicare coverage is a health care option available for senior citizens, but it is not the only one. Elderly residents can take advantage of Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance plans or Medicaid if they need assistance with obtaining reasonable coverage. Each of these types of health care includes different covered services, application and eligibility requirements, so it is important that you familiarize yourself with each option to select the one that is best suited for you. In some cases, applicants may be eligible for Medicare and Medicaid coverage simultaneously. It is beneficial to know who is eligible for Obamacare, Medicaid and Medicare plans, as medical care is crucial in the later stages of life. For more information about the application process, coverage, cost and requirements for these programs, download our senior health care guide.

Learn About Medicaid

While you may have heard of Medicaid before, you may need information about Medicaid like what it has to offer and who meets the eligibility requirements. Medicaid provides health coverage to millions of Americans throughout the nation and has become the single largest source of health coverage within the United States. If you are wondering what services are covered by Medicaid, then you must be aware that services may vary from state to state. However, Medicaid coverage will generally include doctor visits, prescription drug medications, behavioral health services, preventative care, dental care and early and periodic screening, diagnostics and treatments.

Medicaid cost estimates are determined by household size and income with costs ranging anywhere from a small copayment or deductible to receiving no out-of-pocket costs at all. Before completing a Medicaid application, it is essential that you understand who is eligible for Medicaid, as the health insurance program is primarily available to low-income individuals and households.

Find Out About Medicare

Designed for elderly citizens and disabled individuals, Medicare plan options provide you with a variety of covered medical services options. Medicare coverage is a health insurance program that is available for those who meet the minimum age requirements or have certain disabilities. While age does contribute to the primary Medicare qualifications, a number of deciding factors will determine Medicare costs including income, whether you have worked and contributed to Medicare taxes and if you are already receiving retirement benefits either from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board.

If you qualify for Medicare, then it is crucial that you understand the different parts. When you sign up for Medicare, you will need to select one or a combination of the four parts. Each part has different coverage and costs. For example, Medicare Part A coverage is often free to most qualified individuals and primarily covers hospital care. Medicare Part B coverage will typically include doctor visits and preventative care but does not include any dental, vision or prescription drug coverage. Medicare Part C plans are built as a combination of Part A and Part B coverage, but may also include additional services depending upon the Medicare Part C plan that you choose. Finally, Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage. You will have the opportunity to pick and choose which Medicare parts and plans that you would like to enroll in if you qualify.

Get Information on the Affordable Care Act

Enacted in 2010, the Affordable Care Act has aided millions of senior citizens in obtaining a greater insurance coverage while lowering the cost of health care. ACA has changed the way that health insurances operate by increasing insurance accountability as well as ensuring that a health care provider cannot deny health care services for pre-existing conditions. Current information about the Affordable Care Act is prudent, as there are prospective shifts in its availability and continuation.

If you are wondering, “How much does Obamacare cost?” then it is important for you to understand that ACA insurance price estimates are determined by a number of factors including your household size and estimated annual household income. Some low-income households may even qualify for reduced costs through premium tax credits and cost sharing-reductions. If you are wondering how to get Obamacare, then applications can be submitted through the government health care Marketplace. However, there are specific enrollment periods when you may request coverage unless you qualify for a special enrollment period.

Once you know when and how to apply for Obamacare insurance, you may submit an application to view details about the plans available including the monthly premium price and out-of-pocket expenses. Obamacare health insurance plans costs can vary by tier type. Plans are categorized by metal names like bronze, silver, gold and platinum. While all ACA plans must cover certain medical services, the costs for services will vary. Bronze plans have lower premiums but higher costs for services, while platinum plans have higher monthly fees but lower medical care expenses.

There are also Veteran Affair (VA) health care options for former service members and select family members. Applicants who meet the VA health care eligibility requirements can enroll in coverage specific to veteran health care issues. Seniors who meet the qualifications to be on hospice care may need more information on how to choose a hospice care provider and what to expect.