What does Medicare provide health care coverage for?

Medicare provides health care coverage primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, but it also covers younger people with disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The program is designed to assist individuals whose age (typically over 65) or health status (such as qualifying disabilities) meets specific criteria established by federal law.

This coverage ensures that older adults, many of whom may face significant health care needs, have access to necessary medical services. Additionally, while Medicare does not consider income eligibility the same way programs like Medicaid do, aspects like income thresholds can influence what services are available or the premiums individuals may pay within Medicare plans. Hence, Medicare effectively serves individuals whose age or health conditions qualify them.

The other options provide limited contexts or criteria that do not fully align with how Medicare is structured. For example, Medicare is not exclusively for low-income individuals or only those with pre-existing conditions. Moreover, it does not cover all citizens indiscriminately, as it is specifically targeted toward certain demographics based on age or specific health needs. This highlights the unique eligibility criteria that distinguish Medicare from other health insurance programs.