What is Medicare Hospital Insurance (Part A) ?
Medicare Part A helps cover medical services such as hospital visits and skilled nursing facilities.
It one of two parts of Original Medicare alongside with Medicare Part B.
What Does Part A Help Cover?
The following are a few examples of services that Part A can help cover:
- ER visits
- Inpatient hospital care
- Lab tests
- Skilled nursing facility
- Hospital meals
- Home health care
How Much Does Part A Cost?
Most people get Part A for free, as long as you have worked 40 calendar quarters (10 years) and you’ve paid into your FICA taxes.
However, if you don’t qualify to receive premium free Part A, then you’ll pay either $278 or $506 each month for Part A, depending on how long you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes.
What is the Part A Deductible?
The Part A deductible for 2023 is $1,600.
2023 Inpatient Hospital Stay Costs:
- Days 1-60: $0 after you pay your Part A deductible.
- Days 61-90: $400 copayment each day.
- Days 91-150: $800 copayment each day while using your 60 lifetime reserve days.
- After day 150: You pay all costs.
How Do You Know if Part A Covers What You Need?
You can figure out if Part A covers the services you need by talking to your healthcare provider. Ask them if medicare will cover your services or supplies.
Am I Eligible for Medicare Part A?
To be eligible for Part A, you generally should be 65 years or older. You will also need to meet US citizenship and residency requirements.
You may also get coverage earlier if you:
Have had disability benefits for 24 months
Have end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
If you get benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement, it is likely that you will automatically have Part A and Part B when you turn 65.
When Will My Coverage Start?
If you are eligible for Medicare Part A, your coverage will start on the first day of your birthday month. You will also receive a welcome letter in the mail along with a booklet and Medicare card.
But for those who need to enroll, the date your coverage starts depends on when you sign up. For instance, if you sign up before your 65th birthday, you will get it the month you turn 65 years old. The later you sign up for medicare, the later your coverage will start.
How Do I Get Medicare Part A?
If you don’t automatically get Part A, there are a few ways you can sign up.
- Online
- Calling Social Security
- Visiting your local Social Security Office and applying in person.
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