Medicare

New & Noteworthy

Majorities Worry About the Future of Medicare, But See the Washington Debate as Mostly Politics
Large majorities of the public hold favorable views of Medicare. While most people worry about Medicare’s sustainability for the future, they also view the debate in Washington about Medicare cuts as largely politics.
What to Know about Medicare Spending and Financing
Medicare covers 65 million people ages 65 and older and younger people with long-term disabilities. We highlight trends in Medicare spending and key drivers of spending growth, including higher enrollment, growth in health care costs, and increases in payments to Medicare Advantage plans.
Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coverage in Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage enrollment has risen steadily for years, but not much is known about mental health and substance use disorder benefits covered by these plans. We examine the scope of such benefits, including extra benefits, cost sharing, and prior authorization and referral requirements.
FAQs on Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coverage in Medicare
Medicare covers a range of services used to treat mental health and substance use disorders, both inpatient and outpatient, and prescription drugs. Our FAQs review Medicare coverage and cost sharing requirements, as well as recent policy changes.

Data Visualization

The Facts About Medicare Spending

This interactive provides the facts on Medicare spending. Medicare, which serves 65 million people and accounts for 12 percent of the federal budget and 20 percent of national health spending, is at the heart of discussions about health expenditures and affordability.

Explore data on enrollment growth, Medicare spending trends overall and per person, growth in Medicare spending relative to private insurance, spending on benefits and Medicare Advantage, Part A trust fund solvency challenges, and growth in out-of-pocket spending by beneficiaries.