Who are the individuals that Medicare covers besides those who are 65 or older?

Medicare provides health insurance coverage not only for individuals aged 65 and older but also for certain younger individuals with specific circumstances. This includes those under 65 who have qualifying disabilities, such as those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for at least 24 months, or individuals diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), which requires regular dialysis or a kidney transplant. Additionally, Medicare may cover individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) immediately upon diagnosis. This broadens the scope of Medicare's coverage beyond the basic age requirement, demonstrating the program's focus on providing necessary health care access to those facing significant health challenges, regardless of their age.

The other options do not accurately reflect the criteria set forth for Medicare coverage, which specifically targets those with qualifying disabilities and ESRD rather than other demographics or insurance statuses.