To qualify for Medicare, the initial step is to apply for SSDI. Eligibility criteria include being permanently disabled, rendering one incapable of working for at least 12 consecutive months, or unable to fulfill expected job duties due to a limiting medical condition. Moreover, applicants must have previously contributed to Social Security taxes through employment and adhere to their medical professional's recommended treatment regimen.

If this aligns with your circumstances, you can apply for Social Security Disability via the Social Security Administration at https://www.ssa.gov/.

After receiving Social Security Disability benefits for at least 24 months, individuals become eligible to apply for Medicare disability coverage under specific conditions:

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease automatically enrolls you in Medicare Part A and Part B, with the option to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
• If you have received Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B starting from the 25th month. Enrollment in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) is also possible three months before this period.
• End-stage renal Disease (ESRD) necessitates manual enrollment in all Medicare parts via https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/ or by calling 740-413-8296 Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 9 PM. In-person enrollment is also available at your local Social Security office.

• Medicare Part A enrollment is mandatory, with refusal requiring reimbursement of received SSDI benefits.
• Medicare Part B incurs a monthly premium, which can be waived if covered by other health insurance, such as through employer or spousal plans.
• Co-pays and deductibles are to be expected even with Medicare disability coverage. For those enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A & Part B) without employer coverage, supplementing with a Medicare Supplement Plan or considering the Medicare Advantage Plan alternative may be advisable.