Medicare insurance is divided into four main categories: Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D. As one of the most important parts of the program, Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care. This includes doctors and nurses, lab tests, surgery and more. It can also cover hospice care, nursing facilities and home health care.
By far, hospital care is one of the most expensive parts of the healthcare system for the average American. Since hospital visits tend to become more frequent as we age, many seniors living on a fixed income would struggle to pay their hospital bills without Medicare.
Keep in mind that even when enrolled in Part A, you may still be responsible for some costs depending on how long your hospital stay is and certain other factors.
Fortunately, though, Medicare Part A has no premiums for seniors who are eligible.
Compared to many private insurance plans, Medicare Part A comes with extremely low copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. For example, if you are admitted into a hospital once you have enrolled in Part A, your coinsurance will be $0 for the first 60 days.
This program provides coverage for semi-private rooms, meals, medical supplies, drugs and any other treatment supplies you may need during your stay (as long as the hospital you are admitted to accepts Medicare).
Keep in mind that Part A will not provide coverage for optional add-ons, such as private-duty nursing or in-room television in cases where the hospital charges extra for these options.
Additionally, you will not receive coverage for a private room unless it is necessary as part of your treatment or to keep other patients safe.
Do you need comprehensive inpatient care? You could get all of your needs met through Part A Medicare coverage by enrolling online with the SSA today.
Note: When you apply for Medicare online, you’ll be able to enroll in Part A and Part B coverage at the same time.
