According to the article “Medicare Made Clear” published by United Health, “the Medicare program helps 43 million Americans get the health care they need.” The large number of Americans receiving assistance from Medicare shows that it is important and necessary. Being knowledgeable on the subject of Medicare and Medicaid and knowing the different aspects of the programs will be helpful to many Americans. Medicare is a federal health insurance program that includes hospital insurance, medical insurance, customizable plans, and prescription drug coverage. Eligibility requirements for Medicare include people who are at least 65 years old, people with disabilities under the age of 65, and people of any age with end-stage renal disease. End-stage renal disease is defined as permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation. To be eligible for Medicare, a person must have been a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident for five consecutive years. Individuals must also be eligible for Social Security benefits with at least ten years of contributions. (Crosta)Medicare Part A is also known as hospital insurance. This insurance helps pay for hospital stays, home health care, care at a skilled nursing facility, and certain medical equipment. Semi-private rooms are also covered by Medicare Part A; hospital meals; intensive care; medications, medical supplies and medical equipment as a hospital patient; laboratory tests, x-rays and radiotherapy as an inpatient; operating room; and rehabilitation services. Payroll taxes are used to cover Medicare Part A costs; therefore, no monthly premium is paid. Cost sharing, such as deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance, may be required. If a person is eligible for Medi...... middle of paper ...... payments. However, pregnant women, children under 18, and hospital or nursing home patients who spend most of their income on institutional care are excluded from cost sharing. Emergency services and family planning services are also exempt from the co-payment. (Costa)In conclusion, Medicare and Medicaid are accessible to elderly, disabled and low-income individuals or families. They are both supported by the government. Each of them has its own characteristics, but their similarity is that they are in place to offer assistance to people in need. Works Cited “Medicare Made Clear.” AARP Health Care. United Health. Internet. November 25, 2013. .Crosta, Peter. “What is Medicare/Medicaid?” » MNT. No. Internet. November 25 2013. .