Does Medicare Pay For Any Portion Of The Cost Of Care?

Confused about what Medicare covers? Here are some basic guidelines to help you maximize the benefits you receive from Medicare.

Medicare is a national health insurance program that provides coverage for people over age 65. It also covers persons under 65 who have specified disabilities and people of any age with permanent kidney failure. What may not be clear, however, is what portion of the cost of care does Medicare cover?

Which Cost of Care Does Medicare Part A Cover?

The two primary pieces of Medicare are Part A, which is hospital insurance; and Part B which is a medical insurance plan. There are additional coverages available through Medicare Advantage Plans or Part C and Medigap, but lets stick to the basics. Part A’s primary function is to help cover hospital inpatient care. This includes critical access and long-term care hospitals, rehabilitation centers and skilled nursing facilities. Typically, semi-private rooms, meals, drugs, blood, along with essential hospital services required for inpatient treatment are covered. Hospice stays are also covered by Part A along with some medically necessary home health services. Plans, coverages and copays very, so check with www.medicare.gov to make sure you maximize your benefits.

What Portion Of The Cost of Care Is Covered By Part B?

Part B helps cover doctors’ services deemed medically necessary and other outpatient care. The cost of care covered by Part B covers the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions and also covers preventive services such as flu shots, some cancer screenings and Pap tests. Depending on the plan, some cost of care may be free; although you may have to pay for the doctor’s visit. Deductible amounts vary, but after they have been met, the patient is usually only responsible for 20% of the Medicare approved amount for the care. For a complete list of coverage, go to www.medicare.gov and click on the tab “Find Out What Medicare Covers.”

Related posts

1. Who Needs Medicare Supplemental Insurance?
2. How Do I Supplement Medicare When A Cost Is Not Covered?
3. Do You Have To Have Medicare Part B To Enroll In Part D?
4. Does Medicare + Choice Replace Original Medicare?
5. What is Medicare Part B?

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