Medicare is a federal health insurance initiative that covers treatment expenses for eligible U.S. citizens. The program provides healthcare benefits to senior citizens aged 65 and above. However, younger people with disability and those approved for Social Security disability insurance can also benefit from the program. As part of this initiative, most people in the country earn the right to enroll as taxpayers contributing to the system. Keep reading to learn more about Medicare. 11 facts about Medicare Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Usually, Medicare benefits can vary depending on the enrollment plan chosen by the beneficiary. It includes four enrollment plan options – Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. But there are many important facts one must know about the initiative before enrolling. Some key facts regarding the program are listed below. Employees and employers contribute money toward Medicare benefits In most cases, the bulk of the money to provide Medicare benefits comes from employees and employers. It includes 1.45% of a worker’s wages, which adds up to 2.9% of the total amount. In the case of self-employment, the workers contribute 2.9% of their income towards the Medicare program.

When dealing with a disability, timely assistance can go a long way in supporting daily lives. Applying for disability insurance and other benefits ensures that policyholders are financially covered if they are ever faced with a disability. Many of these benefits also support family members and caregivers of those with disabilities. However, to get the most out of these options, one should do their research and know what to expect while applying for disability benefits. 1. Eligibility criteria can vary Different disability benefits programs offered by the government have different eligibility criteria, so it’s crucial to carefully check the criteria before applying. For example, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly benefits to those with disabilities, provided they cannot work for at least a year because of a health condition. Also, this benefit can be availed only by those who had been paying Social Security taxes on their incomes earlier. Also, the definition of disability should include the particular condition that one has. So, to save time and avoid getting rejected, one should verify whether they are eligible for the program before applying for it. 2. Providing accurate details is a priority Usually, one may apply for disability benefits in person, online, or even on the phone.

Thousands of conditions are considered disability, and most of them may qualify for healthcare benefits. Many healthcare authorities provide monthly resources to those who are unable to work due to their illness. However, one should also note that some conditions are more likely to qualify than others. To help one understand better, here’s a list of 10 common disabilities, which includes the largest group of people who receive various government-funded insurance and income. Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue This group of disabilities contains a wide range of disorders and makes up about 30% of all people receiving healthcare benefits. The musculoskeletal system includes the parts of the body, such as ligaments, cartilage, bones, and other connective tissue. The system connects the bones and helps one maintain movements, so sitting, standing, or walking is nearly impossible without the skeletal system. The most common musculoskeletal system and connective tissue disorders include arthritis, spine disorders, scoliosis, ruptured discs, fibromyalgia, and degenerative disc disease. Mood disorders There are several types of mood disorders, including bipolar disorders, cyclothymic disorder, major depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Other complications may also arise, such as depression related to mental illness, persistent depressive disorders (dysthymia), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.