Which of the following describes Medicare?

• A. A private health insurance plan for all adults
• B. A state-run charity health aid program
• C. A federal medical insurance program that primarily serves individuals over 65 regardless of income, younger persons who are disabled, and dialysis patients
• D. A short-term hospital reimbursement program

Answer: (C)

Medicare is a federal medical insurance program primarily serving people age 65 and older, regardless of income, and it also covers younger individuals with certain disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis. It is administered and funded by the federal government, not by states or charitable organizations. Enrollees can access hospital coverage (Part A), medical services (Part B), and optional prescription drug coverage (Part D) or choose a managed option through Medicare Advantage. It differs from Medicaid, which is needs-based and funded jointly by states and the federal government. It is not a private plan for all adults, not a state charity, and not simply a short-term hospital reimbursement program.