What Is Medicare Part A?

Medicare Part A is also referred to as hospital insurance. It's one of the two components of Original Medicare that's meant to cover the large things you get when you're in a hospital or other inpatient setting. You pay little or nothing as a monthly premium for Part A unless you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10 years or more.

What Does Medicare Part A Cover?

What is Medicare Part A and what are the most important services that are included?

Inpatient hospitalization: Semi-private room, meals, nursing services, and medications related to your hospital stay.
Skilled nursing facility care: Short-term rehabilitation or skilled care after a qualifying hospital stay is covered under Medicare Part A.
Hospice care: For individuals with a terminal illness, Part A provides humane end-of-life care, such as pain control and care services.
Home health care: Limited part-time skilled nursing and therapy care at home on prescription by a physician.

It's interesting to note that Part A covers a lot of routine services, but not every one of them. Custodial care on a long-term basis, private-duty nursing, or personal care are typically not covered.

Medicare Part A and B: Together in Action

Original Medicare consists of Part A and Part B. While Part A encompasses hospital and inpatient treatment, Medicare Part B is responsible for:

Doctor visits
Outpatient treatment
Preventive services
Durable medical equipment (DME)

Part A and Part B together provide you with a solid base of coverage. They do not pay for prescription drugs, dental, vision, or hearing, though—all of those are typically covered by Medicare Advantage or supplements.

When and How to Enroll in Medicare Part A

You're enrolled in Medicare Part A and B automatically if you're already on Railroad Retirement or Social Security benefits at age 65. Otherwise, you'll have to enroll in your Initial Enrollment Period—a 7-month period around your 65th birthday.

Missing out on this time may result in delayed coverage and penalties for late enrollment, so planning ahead is crucial.

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Choosing Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or buying additional coverage can be daunting—but it doesn't have to be. Here at Seniortopia, our licensed Medicare brokers provide free, one-on-one consultations to help you choose the best coverage for your health and your budget. Call 858-722-8505 today to arrange your no-obligation Medicare consultation and gain the clarity you are entitled to.