Mr. Davis is 52 years old and has recently been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and will soon begin dialysis. He is wondering if he can obtain coverage under Medicare. What should you tell him?
a. He may sign-up for Medicare at any time however coverage usually begins on the sixth month after dialysis treatments start.
b. He may sign-up for Medicare at any time however coverage usually begins on the fourth month after dialysis treatments start.
c. He may sign-up for Medicare at any time and coverage usually begins immediately.
d. He may not sign-up for Medicare until he reaches age 62, the date he first becomes eligible for Social Security benefits.
If an individual has end-stage renal disease (ESRD), they are eligible to sign up for Medicare. Medicare coverage for individuals with ESRD typically begins on the fourth month after dialysis treatments start.
In the case of Mr. Davis, since he has been diagnosed with ESRD and will soon begin dialysis, he can sign up for Medicare, and coverage will usually begin on the fourth month. He does not need to wait for a specific age or a waiting period. Medicare will provide coverage to help him manage his medical needs related to ESRD and dialysis treatments.