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Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is the federal agency that runs Medicare and works with states on Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program. It also oversees the health insurance marketplaces created by the Affordable Care Act and sets standards for payment and quality. It is part of the Department of Health and Human Services.

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October 19last updated

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All Articles on Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Conceptual painting of an older adult comparing Medicare coverage options with a counselor.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Medicare Part C Explained: What Are Medicare Advantage Plans?

Medicare Advantage, officially known as Medicare Part C, offers an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits. Private insurance companies approved by Medicare provide…

By
Asada
44 Min Read
An older adult reviews hospital-insurance costs with a counselor.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Understanding Medicare Part A Costs for 2025: Premiums, Deductibles, and Coinsurance Explained

Medicare Part A, often called Hospital Insurance, is a fundamental component of the Original Medicare program in the United States. It primarily focuses on…

By
GovFacts
17 Min Read
Conceptual painting of an older adult reviewing medical cost envelopes at home.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Understanding Medicare Part B Premiums, Deductibles, and Coinsurance

Medicare Part B, which covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and other medical services, involves several types of costs: a monthly premium, an annual deductible,…

By
GovFacts
23 Min Read
Painted illustration of an older adult and counselor reviewing a calendar and enrollment checklist.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

When Should I Sign Up for Medicare? Avoiding Penalties

Medicare is the United States' federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 or older, but also for certain younger people with disabilities…

By
GovFacts
43 Min Read
Conceptual watercolor painting of older adult begins a health-insurance enrollment question.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

How to Enroll in Medicare: A Step-by-Step Guide

Medicare provides health insurance for over 66 million Americans, primarily those 65 and older, along with certain younger individuals with qualifying disabilities or specific…

By
GovFacts
13 Min Read
Conceptual watercolor of an older patient discussing hospital paperwork with a care navigator.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Understanding Medicare Part A: Your Hospital Insurance Coverage

Medicare Part A, often called Hospital Insurance, is a fundamental part of the United States Medicare program. It primarily helps cover costs associated with…

By
GovFacts
37 Min Read
Painted illustration of an older adult discussing health coverage options with a counselor.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Medicare Explained: Understanding Parts A, B, C, and D

Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily serving Americans 65 and older, along with certain younger people with qualifying disabilities and those diagnosed…

By
GovFacts
43 Min Read
Conceptual painting of two adults discussing Medicare eligibility with a counselor.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Who Can Get Medicare? Your Guide to Age and Disability Eligibility

Medicare is the United States' federal health insurance program, providing essential health coverage for millions of Americans. The program primarily serves people aged 65…

By
GovFacts
29 Min Read
A parent asks an enrollment counselor about a child’s health coverage.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

How to Get Health Coverage for Your Kids Year-Round

The Medicaid program and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide essential health coverage for millions of Americans with limited income. Unlike private health…

By
GovFacts
14 Min Read
Conceptual painting of worker in everyday clothes talks with a Medicaid enrollment navigator at a community office, holding a blank pay folder.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Can I Qualify for Medicaid if I Have a Job?

Medicaid can cover people who work. State rules, household income and eligibility groups determine coverage, alongside any work-reporting requirement.

By
GovFacts
32 Min Read