When it comes to Medicare and Medicaid it’s important to know some basic facts.

Understanding the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicaid is difficult. We recommend you seek a professional for assistance as well as visit the following web sites:

What follows are some important need-to-knows:
Medicare is a health insurance program for:
  • Individuals 65 years of age and older
  • Individuals under 65 with certain disabilities
  • People of all ages with End-stage Renal Disease
  • Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Eligibility requirements for U.S. citizens or individuals with a resident visa:
  • People 65 years of age and older who are eligible for Social Security or Railroad Retirement Benefits
  • Spouse of someone who meets the above criteria
  • Disabled individuals who have been receiving Social Security Disability for 24 months or more
  • Persons with End-stage Renal Disease or have received a kidney transplant due to kidney failure
  • Individuals with Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS)
MO Healthnet (Medicaid):
Jointly run and funded through the Federal and State, this health insurance program is for individuals with low incomes and limitedresources residing in Missouri. It can cover children, adults, theblind and disabled.

It can also cover those who are eligible to receive federally assisted income maintenance payments. Medicaid eligibility is determined by each state and applications vary state by state.

If eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, most health care costs could be covered.

It’s also important to protect yourself by staying on top of Medicare and Medicaid fraud schemes. Call the Missouri SMP 1-888-515-6565 to report suspected abuse.