What does Medicare Part A Cover?

When it comes to inpatient hospital care, Medicare offers comprehensive coverage for your medical needs. Upon admission by a physician, Medicare covers the care you receive during your hospital stay. In a general hospital, Medicare covers up to 90 days per benefit period, with an additional 60 lifetime reserve days available. For psychiatric hospital care, Medicare provides coverage for up to 190 lifetime days in a Medicare-certified facility

Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care: Understanding Medicare Coverage

Medicare also provides coverage for care received in a skilled nursing facility (SNF). This includes essential services such as room, board, medications, tube feedings, and wound care. Medicare covers up to 100 days per benefit period for SNF care. To qualify for this coverage, you must have spent at least three consecutive days as a hospital inpatient within 30 days prior to admission to the skilled nursing facility. Additionally, you must require skilled nursing or therapy services.

Hospice Care: Medicare Coverage Duration

Medicare covers hospice care for as long as it is certified as medically necessary by your healthcare provider. This ensures that you receive the necessary support and care during this challenging time.

Home Health Care: Part A Coverage Details

While home health care services are typically covered under Medicare Part B, Part A coverage may be available if you have spent at least three consecutive days as a hospital inpatient within 14 days prior to receiving home care. Part A provides coverage for up to 100 days of daily care or an unlimited amount of intermittent care.

Who is Eligible for Medicare Part A?

Eligibility for Medicare Part A begins at the age of 65. If you or your spouse has worked in the United States for a minimum of 10 years, you are eligible for Part A coverage at no cost. During those years, you would have paid taxes toward your Part A hospital benefits. In most cases, individuals automatically qualify for Part A coverage as it covers hospital stays, which is a common healthcare need.

If you haven’t worked for the full 10 years, you can still purchase Part A coverage.

Enrolling in Medicare Part A:

If you are already enrolled in Social Security, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A. However, if you are not yet enrolled, you will need to contact the Social Security office to initiate your enrollment. Your Medicare card will be sent to you approximately one month prior to your 65th birthday. Discover more about the enrollment process and further details on Medicare by exploring our comprehensive resources.

Medicare Special Needs Plans