Number to call medicare — Arlington, TX

Original Medicare, Part A, is typically free if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes. However, Part B, which covers doctor visits and outpatient services, has a monthly premium. Many in Arlington also choose Part D for prescriptions, which also has a premium. Your specific costs depend on these parts and your income.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus younger individuals with disabilities or ESRD. Part A covers hospital stays, Part B covers doctor visits and medical services, and Part D covers prescription drugs. It's a foundational program designed to help manage healthcare costs for eligible Americans.

Medicare generally excludes services like most dental care, routine vision exams, hearing aids, long-term custodial care, cosmetic surgery, and foreign travel. For Arlington residents, understanding these gaps is important for comprehensive planning. Many opt for supplemental plans to cover these out-of-pocket expenses.

To qualify for Medicare, you typically must be 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or legal resident for at least five years. You can also qualify if you have a disability that's covered by Social Security for 24 months, or if you have End-Stage Renal Disease. These are the main eligibility pathways.

The monthly cost of Medicare varies. Part A is often free, but Part B has a standard premium that can increase with higher income. Premiums for Part D (prescription drugs) and Medicare Advantage plans differ by provider and coverage. We can help you estimate these costs based on your situation in Arlington.

Premiums for Part D and Medicare Advantage plans are separate and vary significantly. Your actual monthly Medicare cost will depend on your specific plan choices and income level.