Medicare Part A — Hospital Insurance
The component of Original Medicare that covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care (following a hospital stay), hospice care.
Official source: medicare.gov
Medicare Part A is like the hospital insurance part of Original Medicare. It helps pay for big medical bills if you need to stay in a hospital, get care in a skilled nursing facility after a hospital stay, or receive help for a serious illness (called hospice care).
Most people don't pay a monthly fee for Part A if they or their spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters). If you worked less, you might pay a monthly premium.
When you go to the hospital, Part A usually pays for most of your stay after you pay a certain amount first, called a deductible. For example, in 2026, this deductible is around $1,736 for each benefit period. After a hospital stay, if you need care in a skilled nursing facility, Part A covers the first 20 days fully. For days 21 to 100, you pay a daily amount. After 100 days, you pay for all costs. Most people turning 65 who are already getting Social Security retirement benefits automatically get signed up for Part A.
One important thing to know is that Part A does NOT pay for doctor visits or most prescription drugs. These are covered by other parts of Medicare.
In real life
- A person who needs to stay in the hospital for a surgery is covered by Medicare Part A.
- Someone who needs short-term care in a nursing home after a hospital stay can use Medicare Part A.
- A person receiving hospice care at home will have those services covered by Medicare Part A.
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Frequently asked questions about Medicare Part A
What is Medicare Part A?+
The component of Original Medicare that covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care (following a hospital stay), hospice care, and limited home health services. Premium-free for most Americans who worked 40+ quarters.
Who qualifies for Medicare Part A?+
→ Most people enroll in Part A automatically at 65 if receiving Social Security benefits.
How do I apply for Medicare Part A?+
Most people are enrolled automatically at 65. To pick a plan or sign up manually, go to medicare.gov or call your free SHIP counselor.
Where can I get help?+
Call your free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for one-on-one Medicare counseling at no cost, or compare plans at medicare.gov.
Source: medicare.gov