Medicare Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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medicare
[ˈmɛdɪˌkɛr ]
Definition
healthcare program
Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States, primarily designed for individuals aged 65 and older. It also covers younger individuals with certain disabilities or specific medical conditions. Medicare consists of different parts that handle specific medical services, such as hospital care, outpatient care, and prescription drug coverage. The program helps to reduce the financial burden of healthcare costs for eligible individuals, although it does not cover all medical expenses.
Synonyms
federal program, health insurance.
Examples of usage
- She enrolled in Medicare when she turned 65.
- Medicare covers visits to the doctor and hospital stays.
- Many people rely on Medicare for their healthcare needs.
- Understanding Medicare plans can be quite complex.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The Medicare program was established in 1965 as part of the Social Security Act to provide health insurance for people aged 65 and older.
- Before Medicare, many older Americans struggled to afford healthcare due to limited insurance options.
- The program has expanded over the years to include people with certain disabilities and those with specific health conditions.
Health Policy
- Medicare is divided into different parts: Part A covers hospital insurance, Part B covers outpatient care, Part C includes Medicare Advantage plans, and Part D provides prescription drug coverage.
- The program is funded through payroll taxes, premiums, and general revenue from the government.
- Changes to Medicare often spark intense political debate, reflecting its importance in American healthcare.
Cultural Impact
- Medicare has significantly improved access to healthcare for millions of older adults, contributing to increased life expectancy in the United States.
- The term 'Medicare' has become synonymous with healthcare for seniors and is recognized even outside the United States in discussions about public health policies.
- There are various media representations that address the challenges and benefits of navigating the Medicare system.
Economic Influence
- As of 2021, Medicare provided health coverage for about 63 million Americans, making it one of the largest public health insurers in the nation.
- The costs associated with Medicare impact federal budgets significantly, leading to ongoing discussions about sustainability and reforms.
- Healthcare businesses, such as hospitals and pharmaceutical companies, often rely on Medicare patients for a substantial portion of their revenue.
Technological Advancements
- Medicare has embraced technology, such as telehealth services, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure continued healthcare access.
- The program has seen the rollout of online tools for beneficiaries to manage their health records and plan services digitally.
- Efforts are ongoing to incorporate more data analytics to improve service delivery and efficiency within the Medicare system.
Origin of 'medicare'
The term 'Medicare' was first coined in the United States during the 1960s as a part of the Social Security Amendments of 1965. It was created to provide health insurance to people aged 65 and over, addressing a crucial gap in healthcare coverage for elderly Americans. The name 'Medicare' is a blend of 'medical' and 'care,' indicating its focus on health services. The introduction of Medicare was a significant milestone in American social policy, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for government assistance in healthcare. Over time, Medicare has evolved, incorporating additional provisions to expand its coverage, such as the introduction of Medicare Advantage plans and prescription drug coverage. Today, it stands as one of the most essential components of the American healthcare system, serving millions of beneficiaries and influencing health policy discussions across the country.