If a person is turning 65 years of age,does that mean they have to go from Medicaid to Medicare?

Medicare is for those over 65 or disabled. It is operated by the federal government. Medicaid is for people with low income and little assets. It is operated by the state government.

When you turn 65 you are eligible for Medicare. However, as long as you still qualify for Medicaid you can also stay on Medicaid. You are then know as a "dual eligible" since you are eligible for both programs. Depending on your level of Medicaid the state will pay some if not all of your Medicare charges. In this case the doctor will bill Medicare first for his services and what Medicare doesn't pay he'll turn around and bill Medicaid.

However, in many parts of the country you can get Medicare Advantage plans that are specifically designed for dual eligible individual. These plans can give you much more in benefits that straight Medicare and Medicaid. Contact a local agent that works in the senior market to see if any of these plans are available in your county.

No. Medicaid is for people who are under 21 or over 65 unless they are in certain other categories. When you turn 65, you enroll in the Medicare program and starting this year for most people the Part B premium is $115 per month.Medicare covers only about 80% of your medical costs.

If you are very low income you may also apply for Medicaid. If you qualify for Medicaid it will pay for the other 20%. When you have Medicaid as a senior, your state will also pay for your Medicare Part B premiums of $115 per month.

If you are not low income you would enroll in Medicare and then purchase a supplemental policy from any reputable insurance agent which covers the other 20% of the bills. That costs from $125-150 per month.