Fortune October 21, 2024
It’s common knowledge that Medicare is available for people 65 and over, but you may be surprised to learn that about 10% of Medicare beneficiaries, or nearly 7 million people, are under age 65.
Medicare was established in 1965, as a program to provide health insurance for older adults. In 1972, Medicare coverage was expanded to cover those under 65 who were disabled, as well as people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis or kidney transplant.
Disabilities covered under Medicare for people under 65
Medicare coverage for people under 65 with disabilities is tied to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
“To get Medicare coverage under age 65 for a disability, you need to have been collecting SSDI payments...