Medicare is a federally funded health insurance program in the United States designed to provide healthcare coverage for:

• People aged 65 and over: This is the primary group eligible for Medicare.
• Younger individuals with disabilities: Those who meet specific disability criteria can qualify for Medicare before reaching 65.
• People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): ESRD refers to permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant. Individuals with ESRD of any age qualify for Medicare.

There are four main parts to Medicare, each offering different types of coverage:

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and home health care.
• Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. (Enrollment is optional but recommended.)
• Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans): Offered by private insurers, these plans combine Part A and B coverage, often with additional benefits.
• Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Offered as a standalone plan by private insurers, Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications.