Who is eligible for Original Medicare?

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily designed to provide coverage to individuals aged 65 and older. In addition to this age requirement, Original Medicare is also available to younger individuals who have certain disabilities. Specifically, if a person has been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months or has certain medical conditions, such as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), they may qualify for Medicare before reaching age 65.

This eligibility structure ensures that a broader range of individuals, including those facing significant health challenges, can gain access to essential health care services through Medicare.