Who Qualifies?

• Medicare is health insurance for people over the age of 65. It also provides healthcare coverage for people with end-stage renal failure, Lou Gehrig's disease and disabilities that qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Medicaid provides healthcare coverage for low-income people.
  
  

Medicare Coverage

• Medicare Part A covers hospitalization. Part B covers basic healthcare and medical costs. Part D is prescription coverage. Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage is a comprehensive managed care plan that combines Parts A, B, and D.
  
  

Medicare Costs

• Medicare Part A is free to people who have been gainfully employed for at least 10 years. The monthly premium for Part B is based on the insured's income tax returns. Premiums for Part C and D are determined by the plan that is chosen by the insured. There are co-pays and deductibles that have to be paid by the insured for all Medicare plans.
  
  

Medicaid Coverage

• Medicaid pays for hospitalization, lab tests, X-rays, rehabilitation, physical therapy, nursing home costs, doctor's fees and hospice costs.
  
  

Medicaid Costs

• Medicaid premiums, co-pays and deductibles are determined by each individual state. The amounts that must be paid by the insured are based on income level.