Medicare Part A
What is Medicare Part A?
Medicare is the United States' health insurance program that helps to cover the cost of healthcare for people age 65 or older. Upon turning 65, U.S. citizens can enroll in Original Medicare, consisting of Part A and Part B.
Medicare Part A is the portion of Medicare that covers inpatient care in hospitals and limited stays at skilled nursing facilities. Medicare Part A may also cover certain home health and hospice care services.
Unlike Part B, Medicare Part A is free of cost for most beneficiaries who have worked and paid taxes throughout their adult lives.
What services does Medicare Part A cover?
Medicare Part A is also known as hospital insurance, as it generally covers inpatient care in a hospital setting.
Other services covered by Medicare Part A include:
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Nursing home care (short-term)
- Hospice care
- Home health care
Medicare coverage can vary by state, but Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is guaranteed nationwide by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).