Medicare & Medicaid

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Senior woman speaks about medicare and social security during an AARP event in Richmond, VA on March 20, 2012

AARP Asks Americans to Speak Out about the Future of Medicare, Social Security

You've Earned a Say initiative launches national conversation. read

in the
spotlight

Barack Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia at an exhibit in Honolulu, Hawaii

Exclusive Interview: President Barack Obama

The president speaks with AARP The Magazine about Social Security, Medicare, the economy ... and being a Dad. read

Your Personalized Guide to the Health Care Law

Have Medicare or Medicaid? Answer a few questions and learn how the Affordable Care Act can benefit you. Do

Keeping Medicare Strong

Help protect Medicare by getting the facts and spreading the word about AARP's "You've Earned a Say" initiative. Read

your medicare
questions

hands breaking cigarette - Medicare recipients can now access smoking cessation benefits

Can Medicare Help You Quit Smoking?

Free counseling sessions are available for those trying to kick the habit. read

Younger Spouse Losing Health Insurance, Now What?

Some assume that Medicare will automatically cover their spouse who isn't yet 65 when they themselves qualify. It doesn't. read

Will Part B Rates Rise to $247 a Month by 2014?

No. That figure is from a bogus email designed to scare older Americans. Here's what you need to know about Medicare premiums. read

Can Medicare Help Me Lose Weight?

You may qualify for free counseling to shed those extra pounds. read

When Does the Part B Penalty Clock Begin?

Avoid late fees by knowing your deadline for enrolling in Medicare Part B. read

understanding
medicare

Medicare Starter Kit

What you need to know — plus eight dos and don'ts. read

Drawing of a doctor giving a reflex exam to patient. What is covered under a Medicare wellness exam?

How to Get the New, Free Medicare Checkup

First step: Ask for a "wellness exam," not a physical. read

Medicare's Private Plans Explained

You can choose from different health care coverages and medical service methods through Medicare's many options. read

Medigap Explained

This private, supplemental insurance can be purchased to cover some of your Medicare out-of-pocket costs. read

How Medigap Differs From Medicare Advantage

People often confuse the two plans, but their differences are great. Here's what you need to know. read

Understanding Your Medicare Summary Notice

Use this statement — and AARP's interactive MSN "decoders" — to keep track of the care you receive. read

Medicare Information for Non-Native English Speakers

Medicare, Social Security, and state health insurance assistance programs provide resources for people speaking other languages. read

Medicare
Part D

Medicare Part D & You

Information to help you select the right prescription drug plan. read

Choosing a Medicare Part D Drug Plan

A step-by-step guide to using Medicare's online Plan Finder. read

Who Pays the Part D Higher-Income Surcharge?

Drug coverage in a retiree plan may not exempt you. read

Protecting
Medicare

You've Earned a Say on Medicare and Social Security

Make Your Voice Heard

Tell AARP what you think about Medicare and Social Security. (It'll take less than two minutes.) Do

from the
experts

Medicare and Veterans' Health Coverage

If you have Veterans Affairs medical coverage, you should still sign up for Medicare. read

7 Meds That Can Wreck Your Sex Life

Prescription drugs are behind 1 in 4 cases of sexual problems. Are you taking any? read

Video Extra

Watch More Videos »

An update on the nation's long battle with Medicare fraudsters. Watch

Share Your
Thoughts

Reader stories help us fine-tune our education efforts and strengthen our calls for action on issues that matter most to you. We read and learn from every story and may use yours (with permission) to brief legislators, inspire other readers and more. Please share your story with us. Do