Thursday, August 31, 2017

Understanding What Is Free Under Medicare Part A Coverage

By Walter Bailey


When seniors reach the age of sixty-five, most of them will be entitled to receive Medicare. Not everyone understands how the system works however, and many are surprised to learn what it does and doesn't cover. Some are also surprised to find out that only certain services are free. The Social Security Administration sends out pamphlets with detailed information, but many don't bother to read them closely. Medicare Part A coverage is free for most, but it is limited.

If you have worked in the United States for ten years and paid into the program, you should receive the free benefits provided by Part A. Those who have not worked for the qualifying time period may still be able to purchase the insurance. If you are admitted to the hospital this section of the program will pay for medical services, medication, and meals. It won't pay for a private room, television, or personal care items.

Some seniors are moved into skilled nursing facilities following an operation in order to get physical therapy they could not receive in their homes. Part A will pay the expenses for a short period of time. When that period elapses, it becomes the patient's responsibility to cover the co-pay. While the insurance is in effect, it covers medicine, equipment, meals, and semi-private rooms.

Most people who move into nursing homes need custodial care. The program does not offer coverage in this circumstance. There is private insurance available that will pay for nursing home care. The cost depends of the kind of policy you buy. If you are without resources and qualify for Medicaid, your expenses may be covered with that program. You will have to find a facility that accepts Medicaid and has available space however.

Part A will pay for some home health care services. These can include occasional skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and language therapy. The patient must be under the care of a doctor who authorizes the services, and the individual must be home bound. The benefits do not include around the clock care, meals brought in, personal care, or housekeeping services.

End of life care, in the form of hospice services, is paid for under Part A. It includes both in-home and inpatient facility care. Skilled nursing care, therapy, medications, equipment, and housekeeping are covered in the benefits. It also pays for grief counseling for the patient and the patient's family.

The benefits of this part of the program are dependent of several factors. They include the laws created by the federal and state government. Medicare decides what coverage is permissible nationwide. Local claims processors have a say in what is considered medically necessary in the local area.

Seniors on fixed incomes often have trouble making ends meet. They need the assistance of government programs in order to receive good medical care. Even limited assistance can make a big difference.




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