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Wednesday, 23 August 2017

Understanding What Is Free Under Medicare Part A Coverage

By Walter Bailey


Some people mistakenly assume once they reach sixty-five they will get free health care. Nothing could be further from the truth. Most seniors do qualify for a certain amount of medical assistance through Social Security. The insurance is limited however, and a lot of it is not without cost. Although the government sends brochures to those approaching the age of retirement, many people throw them away without reading about the benefits available through Medicare Part A coverage.

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.

If you are admitted to a skilled nursing facility for something like rehabilitation after surgery, the program will pay expenses for a limited time. After that time, you will be responsible for a daily co-pay amount, and eventually the program will stop paying altogether. Semi-private rooms, drugs, meals, and special equipment are examples of what is covered.

Older citizens, who can no longer care for themselves, sometimes move into nursing homes for custodial care. This is not something this insurance covers. It is a good idea to check with insurance companies before a nursing home becomes a reality. Long term care insurance is available for those who have the means to make the monthly payments. Medicaid is a possibility for those with no assets and very limited resources. Not all nursing homes accept Medicaid patients however, and those that do usually have limited space for them.

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.

Terminally ill seniors can get hospice care through this insurance. It will pay for both in home and inpatient facility care. Nursing, drugs, equipment, and therapy are included in the coverage. Family counseling is also available.

Some people wonder who decides what Medicare pays for and how much it pays. These decisions are governed by several institutions, including federal and state governments. Medicare makes decisions on a national basis. Claims processors determine what local custom considers medically necessary.

Medical care is not cheap, and many are not able to afford private insurance. Seniors can end up owing thousands for minor procedures. Free medical services can make the difference between life and death.




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