What does Medicare Part A cover?

Medicare Part A primarily covers inpatient care, which includes hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. This means that if a patient needs to be admitted to a hospital for treatment or requires rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, these services would typically be covered under Part A. This coverage is vital for individuals who may require more intensive medical care that necessitates a hospital admission, as well as post-acute care in a skilled nursing facility, ensuring they receive the necessary support during their recovery.

Other options listed do not align with the primary focus of Medicare Part A. Outpatient services and preventive care, for instance, are generally covered under Medicare Part B. Physician visits and mental health services also fall under Part B, which is designed to handle outpatient medical services. Similarly, prescription drugs are covered under Medicare Part D, which specifically addresses the needs for medication coverage. While home care can sometimes intersect with Part A, it is generally part of a broader discussion that includes various levels of care, with Part B often covering more preventive or outpatient care.