How does Medicare work in Missouri?
Original Medicare consists of Parts A and B. Part A and/or Part B coverage are available; most people pay a monthly payment for Part B coverage. In most cases, you must pay a deductible and coinsurance for Part A and Part B treatments. In most cases, original Medicare does not cover prescription medicines. Instead, it provides a form of drug coverage called "Medigap." Medicare is the federal health insurance program that provides hospital coverage and medical care to elderly and disabled Americans. It is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The program was created in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's "Great Society" initiative to provide healthcare for all Americans. Since then, it has been updated to account for cost increases and new medical technologies. In Missouri, there are two types of Medicare coverage: Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. With both plans, you will have the same benefits as those offered under original Medicare but they may be provided through a private insurer or a Medicare-approved provider network instead of the government-run system. Under original Medicare, you can receive coverage for outpatient services, such as visits with a doctor or therapist, that do not require an overnight stay at a hospital. You must pay a deductible and coinsurance for these services. Once you meet your annual deductible, original Medicare covers 100% of all Medicare-approved expenses after that.