Medicare Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some very common questions that people ask our SHIP staff and volunteers. If you have a question, visit our website, call us or schedule an appointment. We have the answers. If you want to help your community, become a SHIP Volunteer — it’s a very satisfying job.

THREE COMMON QUESTIONS:

Is Medicare only for people over 65 years old?

Most Medicare beneficiaries are over 65, but people with certain disabilities or those who have received Social Security Disability Income for 25 months are eligible too. In Hawai‘i people with Medicare range from ages 18 to 100+ years old.

Does Medicare pay for long-term care?

Medicare does not pay the largest part of long-term “skilled nursing” care in a facility or in the home. Custodial and Interim care are also not covered. Some Medigap or advantage plans may cover very limited “skilled nursing” care after hospital stays. Private insurers offer long-term care policies.

Does Medicare pay for dental?

Original/Traditional Medicare does not pay for dental care. Some Medicare health plans have some coverage or a dental rider (additional insurance) that may be purchased.

Hawai‘i SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program)
1-888-875-9229 | 808-586-7299
help@hawaiiship.org | www.hawaiiship.org
facebook.com: Hawaii SHIP

This SHIP project was supported, in part, by grant number 90SA0004-02-00 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C., 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy.