Understanding Medicare Benefits

Millions of Americans over the age of 65, as well as some disabled individuals under the age of 65, are eligible to receive Medicare benefits. In terms of skilled nursing, this Medicare coverage is crucial in offsetting some of the expense. Depending on your loved one’s level of care and need, their Medicare benefits may pay for some of their short-term costs.

Medicare Part A

Qualifications for Medicare Part A can vary. However, to put it simply, if your loved one is over the age of 65 and is eligible to receive Social Security, they may be able to receive Medicare Part A benefits that will pay for all or some of their stay in a skilled nursing facility. The coverage, limitations, regulations and restrictions for this level of coverage can include:

• Coverage can last for up to 100 days. However, after the first day 20 days the resident must pay daily co-pay costs.
  
• Coverage will pay for meals, a room, nursing and rehabilitation services, medications and supplies.
  
• The individual must have spent a minimum of at least three consecutive days in a hospital. Also, the recipient has to be admitted to the skilled nursing facility within 30 days of the hospital discharge.
  
• The patient must require the services of a skilled nursing facility, meaning that they require a high level of medical care.

Medicare Part B

Individuals over the age of 65 who are not eligible to receive Medicare Part A are eligible for Medicare Part B. Medicare Part B, which requires the payment of a monthly premium, can help cover some of your loved one’s skilled nursing home costs.

In addition to the annual deductible, patients in the skilled nursing facility will be required to pay for twenty percent of their total costs. It is important to note that this is twenty percent of all cost incurred, including physical therapy, medial supplies and rehabilitation.

For more information about your benefits, visit Brookdale today to learn more about our Skilled Nursing Facilities and Long-Term Care Centers.