الثلاثاء، 22 أغسطس 2017

What You Can Expect From 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 doctors prescribe skilled nursing facility rehabilitation for patients after major surgeries. Meals, drugs, equipment, and semi-private rooms are covered. This insurance covers expenses up to a point. You can stay for a certain time period before you get billed for daily co-pays. The program will not cover extended stays. After a certain number of days, the program will quit paying and, unless you have supplemental insurance, the expenses will be your responsibility.

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.

State and federal governments determine the laws regarding Medicare. Social Security administrators decide what is covered. Claims processors set the rules for medical necessity in local areas. If you don't know whether or not a procedure that has been recommended for you is covered, you can contact your local Medicare office or go online. You can also dispute a rejected claim.

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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