Original Medicare coverage 2017

• Table of Contents

  • Introduction
  • Understanding the Basics of Original Medicare Coverage
  • Exploring the Benefits of Original Medicare Part A
  • Unveiling the Coverage Options of Original Medicare Part B
  • The Importance of Original Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage
  • Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Which is Right for You?
  • Navigating Original Medicare’s Preventive Services and Screenings
  • Original Medicare and Hospital Stays: What You Need to Know
  • Original Medicare and Skilled Nursing Facility Coverage
  • Original Medicare and Home Health Care Services
  • Original Medicare and Hospice Care: Understanding the Coverage
  • Conclusion

Original Medicare coverage 2017: Your trusted healthcare foundation.

Introduction

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for eligible individuals who are 65 years or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It consists of two parts: Part A, which covers hospital insurance, and Part B, which covers medical insurance. In 2017, Original Medicare coverage included a range of services such as hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, and some medical supplies.

Understanding the Basics of Original Medicare Coverage

Original Medicare Coverage 2017

Understanding the Basics of Original Medicare Coverage

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for individuals who are 65 years or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. The program is divided into different parts, with Original Medicare being the foundation of the coverage. In this article, we will explore the basics of Original Medicare coverage in 2017.

Original Medicare consists of two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospital insurance, while Part B covers medical insurance. Together, these two parts provide a comprehensive range of coverage for eligible individuals.

Part A of Original Medicare covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. This coverage is generally provided at no cost to individuals who have paid Medicare taxes while working. However, there may be certain costs associated with Part A, such as deductibles and coinsurance.

Part B of Original Medicare covers a wide range of medical services and supplies that are necessary to diagnose or treat a medical condition. This includes doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment. Part B also covers some prescription drugs that are administered in a doctor’s office or outpatient setting. Unlike Part A, Part B requires individuals to pay a monthly premium, as well as deductibles and coinsurance.

In addition to Parts A and B, there are also other options available to enhance Original Medicare coverage. One option is to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Part C. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and provide all the benefits of Original Medicare, plus additional coverage such as prescription drugs, dental, and vision care. Medicare Advantage plans often have their own network of doctors and hospitals, and may require individuals to pay a monthly premium in addition to their Part B premium.

Another option to enhance Original Medicare coverage is to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, also known as Part D. These plans are also offered by private insurance companies and provide coverage for prescription drugs. Part D plans have a formulary, which is a list of covered drugs, and individuals may be required to pay a monthly premium, as well as deductibles and copayments.

It is important to note that Original Medicare does not cover all healthcare services and supplies. For example, it does not cover routine dental care, eyeglasses, hearing aids, or long-term care. To fill these gaps in coverage, individuals may choose to purchase additional insurance, such as a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy. Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies and can help pay for certain out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and coinsurance.

In conclusion, Original Medicare coverage in 2017 consists of Parts A and B, which provide coverage for hospital and medical services. Individuals may also choose to enhance their coverage by enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Additionally, purchasing a Medigap policy can help fill the gaps in coverage. It is important for individuals to understand their options and choose the coverage that best meets their healthcare needs.

Exploring the Benefits of Original Medicare Part A

Original Medicare is a government health insurance program that provides coverage for millions of Americans aged 65 and older. It is divided into two parts: Part A and Part B. In this article, we will explore the benefits of Original Medicare Part A and how it can help seniors access the healthcare they need.

Original Medicare Part A is often referred to as hospital insurance. It covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. This coverage is crucial for seniors who may require hospitalization or long-term care.

One of the main benefits of Original Medicare Part A is that it provides coverage for hospital stays. This includes a semi-private room, meals, general nursing care, and other hospital services and supplies. It also covers critical access hospitals, which are small facilities that provide limited services to rural areas.

Another important benefit of Part A is coverage for skilled nursing facility care. This is particularly useful for seniors who need rehabilitation services or long-term care after a hospital stay. Part A covers up to 100 days of skilled nursing facility care per benefit period, with certain conditions and limitations.

Hospice care is another essential benefit of Original Medicare Part A. It provides comfort and support for individuals with a terminal illness and their families. Part A covers hospice care in a hospice facility, hospital, or at home. It includes medical and support services, such as pain relief medications, counseling, and respite care.

Additionally, Part A covers some home health care services. This includes intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech-language pathology services, and occupational therapy. To qualify for home health care coverage, the individual must be homebound and require skilled care on a part-time basis.

It is important to note that while Original Medicare Part A covers many hospital and long-term care services, it does not cover everything. For example, it does not cover private-duty nursing, private rooms, or personal care items. It also does not cover most prescription drugs, which are covered under Part D.

To supplement the coverage provided by Original Medicare, many seniors choose to enroll in a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan. These plans help pay for some of the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not cover, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

In conclusion, Original Medicare Part A provides essential coverage for hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. It is a valuable resource for seniors who need access to healthcare and long-term care. However, it is important to understand that Part A does not cover everything, and additional coverage may be necessary to fill in the gaps. By exploring the benefits of Original Medicare Part A and understanding its limitations, seniors can make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.

Unveiling the Coverage Options of Original Medicare Part B

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for millions of Americans who are 65 years old or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It consists of two parts: Part A, which covers hospital stays, and Part B, which covers medical services and supplies. In this article, we will focus on the coverage options of Original Medicare Part B in 2017.

Part B of Original Medicare covers a wide range of medical services and supplies that are deemed medically necessary. This includes doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment. It also covers certain screenings, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, as well as vaccinations and flu shots. Part B coverage is essential for individuals who want access to a comprehensive range of medical services.

One of the key features of Part B coverage is that it allows beneficiaries to choose any doctor or healthcare provider who accepts Medicare. This means that you have the freedom to see any healthcare professional who participates in the Medicare program, without needing a referral. This flexibility is particularly important for individuals who have established relationships with specific doctors or specialists.

In addition to the freedom to choose your own healthcare providers, Part B coverage also provides protection against high medical costs. While there is a monthly premium for Part B, the program covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered services. This means that you are only responsible for the remaining 20% of the cost. However, it is important to note that there is no cap on the amount you may have to pay out-of-pocket for Part B services.

To help beneficiaries manage their healthcare costs, Medicare offers supplemental insurance plans, known as Medigap policies. These policies are sold by private insurance companies and can help cover the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Medigap policies are standardized and offer different levels of coverage, so it is important to carefully compare the options available to you.

Another important aspect of Part B coverage is the annual deductible. In 2017, the deductible for Part B is $183. This means that you must pay this amount out-of-pocket before Medicare starts covering its share of the costs. After meeting the deductible, you will typically be responsible for a 20% coinsurance for most services. However, certain preventive services, such as screenings and vaccinations, are covered in full, with no coinsurance or deductible.

It is worth noting that Part B coverage does not include prescription drug coverage. For prescription drug coverage, beneficiaries must enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and can help cover the cost of prescription medications.

In conclusion, Original Medicare Part B provides coverage for a wide range of medical services and supplies. It offers flexibility in choosing healthcare providers and protects against high medical costs. However, beneficiaries should be aware of the out-of-pocket expenses associated with Part B coverage and consider supplemental insurance options to help manage these costs. Additionally, it is important to remember that Part B coverage does not include prescription drug coverage, which must be obtained through a separate plan.

The Importance of Original Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage

Original Medicare coverage is a vital aspect of healthcare for millions of Americans. It provides essential medical services and treatments to eligible individuals, ensuring that they receive the care they need. While Original Medicare Part A and Part B cover a wide range of medical expenses, there is one area where it falls short – prescription drugs. This is where Original Medicare Part D comes into play, offering coverage for prescription medications.

Prescription drug coverage is crucial for individuals who rely on medications to manage their health conditions. Without adequate coverage, the cost of prescription drugs can be exorbitant, making it difficult for many people to afford the medications they need. This can have serious consequences, as individuals may be forced to forgo necessary treatments or cut back on their medication dosage, leading to worsening health conditions and potentially avoidable hospitalizations.

Original Medicare Part D helps to alleviate this burden by providing coverage for prescription drugs. It is a standalone prescription drug plan that can be added to Original Medicare, providing beneficiaries with access to a wide range of medications at affordable prices. This coverage is offered through private insurance companies approved by Medicare, and the plans available vary in terms of cost and coverage.

One of the key benefits of Original Medicare Part D is the extensive list of covered medications. These plans typically cover a wide range of prescription drugs, including both brand-name and generic medications. This ensures that beneficiaries have access to the medications they need, regardless of their specific health conditions. Additionally, Part D plans often include a formulary, which is a list of covered drugs specific to each plan. This allows beneficiaries to easily determine which medications are covered and at what cost.

Another important aspect of Original Medicare Part D is the cost-sharing structure. While the specific costs vary depending on the plan, beneficiaries typically pay a monthly premium, an annual deductible, and a portion of the cost of each prescription medication. However, these costs are often significantly lower than the retail price of the medications, making them more affordable for individuals on fixed incomes.

In addition to the cost savings, Original Medicare Part D also offers protection against high drug costs. Once a beneficiary reaches a certain threshold of out-of-pocket expenses, known as the coverage gap or “donut hole,” they become eligible for additional savings on their prescription drugs. This can provide significant relief for individuals who require expensive medications or have chronic health conditions that require ongoing treatment.

It is important to note that Original Medicare Part D is not automatically included in Original Medicare coverage. Beneficiaries must actively enroll in a Part D plan during the designated enrollment periods. These enrollment periods typically occur annually, and it is crucial for individuals to review their options and select a plan that best meets their needs.

In conclusion, Original Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage plays a vital role in ensuring that beneficiaries have access to the medications they need at affordable prices. It offers an extensive list of covered medications, a cost-sharing structure that makes prescriptions more affordable, and protection against high drug costs. By enrolling in a Part D plan, individuals can ensure that they receive the necessary medications to manage their health conditions and maintain their overall well-being.

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Which is Right for You?

Original Medicare coverage 2017

When it comes to healthcare coverage for seniors, Original Medicare is a popular choice. It is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits, and other medical services. However, there is another option available called Medicare Advantage, which is a private health insurance plan that offers additional benefits beyond what Original Medicare provides. So, which one is right for you?

Original Medicare consists of two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical supplies. Together, these two parts provide comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services.

One of the advantages of Original Medicare is that it allows you to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare. This gives you the freedom to choose the healthcare providers that best meet your needs. Additionally, Original Medicare does not require referrals to see specialists, which means you can seek specialized care without having to go through a primary care physician.

However, Original Medicare does not cover all healthcare costs. There are deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that you are responsible for paying. This can add up quickly, especially if you require frequent medical services. To help with these costs, many people choose to purchase a supplemental insurance plan, also known as Medigap, which can help cover the gaps in Original Medicare coverage.

On the other hand, Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans provide all the benefits of Original Medicare, but they may also include additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage, dental care, vision care, and hearing aids. Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer wellness programs and gym memberships.

One of the main advantages of Medicare Advantage plans is that they often have lower out-of-pocket costs compared to Original Medicare. Many plans have a set copayment for doctor visits and hospital stays, which can make it easier to budget for healthcare expenses. Additionally, some Medicare Advantage plans have a maximum out-of-pocket limit, which means that once you reach that limit, the plan will cover all additional costs for the rest of the year.

However, Medicare Advantage plans have some limitations. First, you must choose a primary care physician within the plan’s network, and you may need a referral to see a specialist. This can limit your choice of healthcare providers. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans may have restrictions on coverage for certain services or medications, so it’s important to carefully review the plan’s details before enrolling.

In conclusion, when deciding between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, it’s important to consider your healthcare needs and budget. Original Medicare offers flexibility in choosing healthcare providers, but it does not cover all costs. Medicare Advantage plans provide additional benefits and often have lower out-of-pocket costs, but they may have restrictions on coverage. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. It’s a good idea to compare the costs and benefits of each option before making a decision.

Navigating Original Medicare’s Preventive Services and Screenings

Original Medicare Coverage 2017: Navigating Original Medicare’s Preventive Services and Screenings

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for individuals who are 65 years or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. Original Medicare is made up of two parts: Part A, which covers hospital stays and some skilled nursing facility care, and Part B, which covers doctor visits and other outpatient services. In 2017, Original Medicare expanded its coverage to include a range of preventive services and screenings aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of diseases. This article will guide you through the various preventive services and screenings covered by Original Medicare in 2017.

One of the key preventive services covered by Original Medicare is the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. This visit is available to individuals within the first 12 months of enrolling in Part B and provides an opportunity for a comprehensive review of your health status. During this visit, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and provide personalized health advice. This visit is an excellent opportunity to establish a baseline for your health and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

Another important preventive service covered by Original Medicare is the annual wellness visit. This visit is available to all Medicare beneficiaries once every 12 months and focuses on developing or updating a personalized prevention plan. During this visit, your doctor will review your medical and family history, update your list of current providers and medications, and assess your risk factors for certain diseases. Your doctor will also provide personalized health advice and may recommend additional preventive services or screenings based on your individual needs.

In addition to these preventive visits, Original Medicare also covers a range of screenings and tests aimed at detecting diseases early. For example, Medicare covers an annual mammogram for women aged 40 and older to screen for breast cancer. It also covers a Pap test and pelvic exam every 24 months for women at average risk for cervical cancer, and every 12 months for women at high risk. Medicare also covers a range of screenings for cardiovascular diseases, including cholesterol and lipid level tests, as well as screenings for colorectal cancer, diabetes, and HIV.

It is important to note that while Original Medicare covers a wide range of preventive services and screenings, there may be certain limitations and requirements. For example, some services may only be covered if they are deemed medically necessary or if certain criteria are met. Additionally, Medicare may require a referral from your primary care physician for certain screenings or tests. It is always a good idea to check with Medicare or your healthcare provider to understand the specific coverage and requirements for the preventive services and screenings you may need.

In conclusion, Original Medicare coverage in 2017 includes a range of preventive services and screenings aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of diseases. From the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit to the annual wellness visit, Medicare provides opportunities for comprehensive health assessments and personalized prevention plans. Additionally, Medicare covers a variety of screenings and tests for diseases such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, cardiovascular diseases, colorectal cancer, diabetes, and HIV. While there may be limitations and requirements, understanding the coverage and requirements for these preventive services and screenings can help you take control of your health and well-being.

Original Medicare and Hospital Stays: What You Need to Know

Original Medicare Coverage 2017

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for hospital stays and medical services for individuals who are 65 years old or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It is important to understand the coverage provided by Original Medicare, especially when it comes to hospital stays.

When it comes to hospital stays, Original Medicare provides coverage for inpatient care, which includes a semi-private room, meals, general nursing care, and other hospital services and supplies. However, it is important to note that Original Medicare does not cover private rooms unless they are medically necessary.

In addition to inpatient care, Original Medicare also covers skilled nursing facility (SNF) care, which is provided after a hospital stay for a related condition. SNF care includes services such as nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. However, it is important to meet certain criteria in order to qualify for SNF care, such as having a qualifying hospital stay and needing skilled care on a daily basis.

It is also important to note that Original Medicare has certain limitations when it comes to hospital stays. For example, Original Medicare only covers up to 90 days of inpatient hospital care per benefit period. A benefit period begins the day you are admitted to a hospital or skilled nursing facility and ends when you have been out of the hospital or SNF for 60 consecutive days. If you need to be readmitted to the hospital after the 90-day limit, you may be responsible for paying a new deductible.

Original Medicare also has a lifetime reserve of 60 additional days of inpatient hospital care. These reserve days can be used after you have exhausted your initial 90-day limit. However, it is important to note that there is a daily coinsurance amount for these reserve days, which you will be responsible for paying.

It is also important to understand that Original Medicare does not cover certain hospital services, such as private duty nursing, personal care items, and private room television and phone charges. These services are considered non-covered services and you will be responsible for paying for them out of pocket.

In order to ensure that you have the coverage you need for hospital stays, it is important to consider additional coverage options. One option is to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Medicare Part C. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and provide all of the benefits of Original Medicare, plus additional coverage such as prescription drugs, dental, and vision care.

Another option is to enroll in a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan, also known as Medigap. These plans are also offered by private insurance companies and help cover the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

In conclusion, Original Medicare provides coverage for hospital stays and medical services for individuals who are 65 years old or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It is important to understand the coverage provided by Original Medicare when it comes to hospital stays, including inpatient care, skilled nursing facility care, and limitations on coverage. Considering additional coverage options, such as Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement Insurance, can help ensure that you have the coverage you need for hospital stays.

Original Medicare and Skilled Nursing Facility Coverage

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for individuals who are 65 years or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It is divided into two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and some home health care services, while Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services.

One important aspect of Original Medicare coverage is its coverage for skilled nursing facility care. Skilled nursing facility (SNF) care refers to the care provided in a skilled nursing facility, which is a facility that provides skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services to individuals who need a higher level of care than can be provided at home or in an assisted living facility.

To be eligible for SNF care under Original Medicare, certain criteria must be met. First, the individual must have been admitted to a hospital for at least three consecutive days, not including the day of discharge. Second, the individual must need skilled nursing care or rehabilitation services on a daily basis, which can include services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy. Finally, the individual must be admitted to a Medicare-certified SNF within 30 days of their hospital stay.

Once these criteria are met, Original Medicare will cover the cost of SNF care for up to 100 days. During the first 20 days, Medicare will cover the full cost of care. However, from day 21 to day 100, the individual will be responsible for a daily coinsurance amount, which is set at $176 in 2017. It is important to note that Original Medicare does not cover SNF care beyond 100 days.

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria and being responsible for the coinsurance amount, there are other limitations to Original Medicare’s coverage for SNF care. For example, Original Medicare only covers care in a SNF if it is medically necessary and if the individual is receiving skilled care on a daily basis. If the individual no longer needs skilled care or if they are receiving custodial care, which is care that helps with activities of daily living such as bathing or dressing, Original Medicare will not cover the cost of care.

Furthermore, Original Medicare only covers care in a SNF if the individual is admitted to the facility within 30 days of their hospital stay. If the individual is admitted to a SNF after this 30-day period, Original Medicare will not cover the cost of care. It is important for individuals to be aware of these limitations and to plan accordingly to ensure that they receive the necessary care and that it is covered by Original Medicare.

In conclusion, Original Medicare provides coverage for skilled nursing facility care, which is care provided in a skilled nursing facility to individuals who need a higher level of care than can be provided at home or in an assisted living facility. To be eligible for SNF care under Original Medicare, certain criteria must be met, and there are limitations to the coverage provided. It is important for individuals to understand these criteria and limitations to ensure that they receive the necessary care and that it is covered by Original Medicare.

Original Medicare and Home Health Care Services

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for individuals who are 65 years or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. This program is divided into two parts: Part A and Part B. While Part A covers hospital stays and some skilled nursing facility care, Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. However, it is important to note that Original Medicare does not cover all healthcare services, including home health care services.

Home health care services are a vital component of healthcare for many individuals, especially those who are elderly or have chronic illnesses. These services include skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology services, and medical social services. They are typically provided in the comfort of the patient’s own home, allowing them to receive necessary care while maintaining their independence.

Unfortunately, Original Medicare has limitations when it comes to covering home health care services. In order for these services to be covered, certain criteria must be met. Firstly, the patient must be homebound, meaning that leaving the home requires a considerable and taxing effort. Additionally, the patient must require skilled nursing care or therapy services on an intermittent basis. This means that the services must be needed less than seven days a week or less than eight hours a day over a period of 21 days or less.

Furthermore, the home health care services must be provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency. These agencies must meet certain quality standards and are subject to regular inspections to ensure that they are providing appropriate care. It is important for patients to verify that the agency they choose is Medicare-certified in order to ensure that their services will be covered by Original Medicare.

When home health care services are covered by Original Medicare, the program typically pays for 80% of the approved amount for the services. The remaining 20% is the responsibility of the patient, unless they have additional insurance coverage, such as a Medigap policy. It is important for individuals to understand their financial responsibilities when it comes to home health care services and to plan accordingly.

In addition to the limitations on coverage, Original Medicare also has certain requirements for the duration of home health care services. Initially, a patient can receive up to 60 days of care, with the possibility of an additional 60-day period if the patient’s condition continues to meet the necessary criteria. However, after 120 days of care, the patient must have a face-to-face encounter with a healthcare provider in order to continue receiving home health care services.

In conclusion, while Original Medicare provides coverage for a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital stays and doctor visits, it has limitations when it comes to home health care services. These services are only covered if certain criteria are met, and even then, the coverage is limited to 80% of the approved amount. It is important for individuals to understand these limitations and to plan accordingly for their healthcare needs. Additionally, it is crucial to choose a Medicare-certified home health agency in order to ensure that the services provided will be covered by Original Medicare.

Original Medicare and Hospice Care: Understanding the Coverage

Original Medicare Coverage 2017

Original Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for millions of Americans aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It consists of two parts: Part A, which covers hospital stays and some skilled nursing facility care, and Part B, which covers doctor visits and outpatient services. While Original Medicare provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services, it is important to understand its coverage limitations, particularly when it comes to hospice care.

Hospice care is a specialized type of care for individuals who are terminally ill and have a life expectancy of six months or less. It focuses on providing comfort and support to patients and their families during the final stages of life. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including the patient’s home, a hospice facility, or a hospital.

Under Original Medicare, hospice care is covered under Part A. This means that Medicare will pay for the services and supplies related to hospice care, including doctor visits, nursing care, medications for pain relief and symptom management, and medical equipment such as wheelchairs or hospital beds. However, it is important to note that Original Medicare does not cover room and board if the patient receives hospice care in a facility.

To be eligible for hospice care under Original Medicare, a patient must meet certain criteria. They must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less. Additionally, they must sign a statement choosing hospice care instead of other Medicare-covered benefits for their terminal illness. This statement acknowledges that they understand the nature of hospice care and its focus on comfort rather than curative treatment.

Once a patient is enrolled in hospice care, they will have a team of healthcare professionals working together to provide comprehensive care. This team typically includes a doctor, nurse, social worker, chaplain, and other specialists as needed. They will develop a personalized care plan based on the patient’s needs and preferences, which may include pain management, emotional support, and assistance with daily activities.

While Original Medicare covers most hospice services, there may be some out-of-pocket costs for patients. These costs can include a copayment for prescription drugs, a 5% coinsurance for inpatient respite care, and a 5% coinsurance for any outpatient drugs or services. However, these costs are generally minimal compared to the overall cost of hospice care.

It is important for individuals considering hospice care to understand their options and make informed decisions. Original Medicare provides coverage for hospice care, but it is always a good idea to review the specific details of coverage and any potential costs. Additionally, individuals may have the option to choose a Medicare Advantage plan, which may offer additional benefits and coverage for hospice care.

In conclusion, Original Medicare provides coverage for hospice care under Part A. This coverage includes a wide range of services and supplies related to hospice care, but does not cover room and board in a facility. Eligibility for hospice care under Original Medicare requires meeting certain criteria and signing a statement choosing hospice care. While there may be some out-of-pocket costs, they are generally minimal compared to the overall cost of hospice care. It is important for individuals to understand their options and make informed decisions when it comes to hospice care and their Medicare coverage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Original Medicare coverage in 2017 provided essential healthcare benefits to eligible individuals, including hospital insurance (Part A) and medical insurance (Part B). While it covered a wide range of services, there were certain limitations and gaps in coverage that individuals needed to be aware of. It is important for beneficiaries to understand their options and consider additional coverage, such as Medicare Advantage plans or supplemental insurance, to fill these gaps and ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage.