Does Medicare Pay for Long-Term Care?

Medicare does not generally pay for long-term care. However, individuals may qualify for Medicare to pay for rehabilitation or skilled
nursing on an in-patient basis after a qualifying
3-day hospital stay. The benefit pays in full for days 1-20, then 80% for days 21-100. However, the recipient must meet the criteria set forth by Medicare to receive all 100 days. Medicare will also pay for home health services if prescribed
by a physician and the beneficiary meets certain requirements, such as being home-bound and needing skilled nursing or therapy. These services are short term, typically lasting 60 days or less.

Does Medicare Pay for Prescriptions?

Medicare offers a prescription drug benefit for enrollees, known as Medicare D. This benefit is provided when Medicare enrollment begins, or
at a later date. If you do not sign up when you
first become eligible, or if you don’t have coverage that is equivalent to Medicare D, then you may need to pay a penalty when you sign
up at a later date. There are a variety of plans
to choose from. Generally there are monthly premiums and co-payments. An extra help program is available to pay the premium and
co-payments for those with limited income and resources. For help with all of your Medicare concerns, call Steinbacherand Stahl for a free consultation.