Understanding Medicare versus Medicaid
When you need health coverage, you may want to look into obtaining Medicare or Medicaid. These aren’t the same thing, even though they may have some aspects that overlap.
Medicare is available to older individuals, usually over the age of 65. It is usually used to pay for acute injuries that you’ll be able to recover from. For example, if you fall and break your wrist, then that may be covered by Medicare. Medicare may also cover the rehabilitation you need in the future. It’s also used for chronic conditions that require regular outpatient care.
How long will Medicare cover your injuries?
Medicare actually covers acute injury costs until you stop recovering. Medicare may also cover your stay at a rehabilitation facility. The first 20 days are normally covered, and then any additional days are subject to a copay.
What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicaid, on the other hand, is the federal health insurance that is provided to those requiring financial assistance. It’s available to certain low-income adults, people with disabilities, elderly adults, children and pregnant women. It provides low-cost health coverage to millions of people in the United States.
As someone who is getting older, you should prepare for the potential risk of getting hurt. If you have Medicaid, it should cover much of the care you need. Medicare may also cover a portion of your treatment. Every situation is different, but depending on what happens, you may still find there are debts left to pay.
Your attorney can help you set up a long-term health care plan to cover unexpected costs from injuries or illnesses. You can include this kind of scenario in your estate plan, giving you time to prepare for the troubles you may face as you age.
