What does Medicare Part A cover after a hospital stay?

Medicare Part A primarily covers inpatient care, including a range of services for individuals who have been hospitalized. After a qualifying hospital stay, Medicare Part A specifically provides coverage for skilled nursing care, which is essential for recovery and rehabilitation following a hospital discharge. This type of care typically occurs in a skilled nursing facility and includes services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other specialized care that requires professional medical staff.

The coverage is contingent on the individual having had an inpatient hospital stay of at least three consecutive days and needing the skilled services to aid in their recovery. This makes it crucial for recovery from serious health issues, ensuring patients receive the appropriate care as they transition from hospital to home or other settings.

Other options do not accurately describe the coverage under Medicare Part A. For instance, long-term care in non-approved facilities is not covered by Medicare Part A. Routine hospital visits and emergency ambulance services fall under different types of Medicare coverage or other insurance options, as they do not directly relate to the post-hospital stay skilled nursing care provided by Part A. Thus, skilled nursing care is correctly recognized as a benefit of Medicare Part A after a hospital stay.