To achieve Medicare Part A eligibility through total disability, how long must the claimant have been entitled to Social Security disability income benefits?

To achieve eligibility for Medicare Part A through total disability, an individual must be entitled to Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) benefits for a duration of 24 months. This requirement is established to ensure that individuals have a significant history of disability benefits before accessing Medicare.

Once the 24-month period of receiving SSDI benefits has passed, the individual automatically qualifies for Medicare Part A. This provision offers a safety net for those with long-term disabilities who may require comprehensive health coverage. The 24-month waiting period is consistent with Medicare policy to ensure that beneficiaries have a sustained need for medical care associated with their disabilities.

In contrast, the other time frames listed do not meet the criteria set by Medicare for obtaining Part A eligibility through disability. Therefore, the 24-month period is essential for individuals to transition from SSDI to Medicare coverage.