Understanding Medicare Part A: What’s Covered and What You Need to Know

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to understand what’s covered under each part. At Temecula Medical Group, we’re here to make your healthcare experience easier—starting with clear, straightforward information.

In this blog post, we’re breaking down Medicare Part A, what it covers, and how it may impact your healthcare choices.

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What Is Medicare Part A?

Medicare Part A is often referred to as “hospital insurance.” It helps cover your care when you're admitted to a hospital or skilled nursing facility, and also includes some home health and hospice services.

If you've worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters), you likely won’t pay a monthly premium for Part A.

What Does Medicare Part A Cover?

Here’s a quick overview of what Medicare Part A includes:

1. Inpatient Hospital Care

• Semi-private room

• Meals

• General nursing

• Medications related to your inpatient stay

• Other hospital services and supplies

Important: Part A only covers inpatient hospital care—not outpatient or observation stays.

2. Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care

• After a qualifying 3-day inpatient hospital stay

• Coverage includes room, board, and medically necessary services like physical therapy, wound care, and medications

• Up to 100 days per benefit period (with cost-sharing after 20 days)

3. Home Health Care

• Must be deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor

• Covers part-time or intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, and sometimes occupational therapy

• You must be homebound to qualify

4. Hospice Care

• For terminally ill patients with a life expectancy of 6 months or less

• Focuses on comfort, not cure

• Includes medications, support services, grief counseling, and respite care for caregivers

What’s Not Covered Under Medicare Part A?

It’s just as important to know what Part A doesn’t cover:

• Long-term custodial care (like help with bathing, dressing, or eating)

• Doctor visits (covered under Medicare Part B)

• Outpatient care

• Prescription drugs (unless administered during a hospital or SNF stay)

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How Temecula Medical Group Supports Medicare Patients

Whether you're new to Medicare or reviewing your coverage, we’re here to help. At Temecula Medical Group, we believe in proactive, personalized care—and that includes helping you understand your benefits so you can make the most informed decisions for your health.

If you have questions about Medicare Part A or need help navigating your coverage, give us a call or schedule an appointment. We’re happy to walk you through it.

Our team is always here to support your health journey. Contact Temecula Medical Group at (951) 302-2526 or visit our office to speak with a provider or care coordinator.

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Author

Temecula Medical Group Place of Healing: We strive to make our clinic a healing space for all of our patients through compassionate care and active listening.