Who is eligible for Medicare?

• A. Individuals aged 60 and older
• B. Individuals aged 65 and older, certain younger individuals with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS
• C. Any individual who pays taxes
• D. Only those with severe disabilities

Answer: (B)

Medicare eligibility encompasses a specific set of criteria that includes age and certain health conditions. Individuals aged 65 and older are the primary group eligible for Medicare, reflecting the program's intent to support older adults in accessing healthcare. Additionally, the program extends coverage to younger individuals who meet specific requirements, such as those who are living with a disability for at least 24 months and individuals diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This broader eligibility framework is designed to ensure that a segment of the population that may require healthcare support earlier in life also has access to Medicare benefits.

The other options do not accurately reflect the criteria for Medicare eligibility. While individuals need to meet certain income and tax criteria to qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A, simple tax contributions or age restrictions alone do not fulfill the requirements set for Medicare coverage.