Illinois Health Insurance Practice Exam

For a Medicare-skilled nursing home, what is the coverage for the first 1-20 days?

1. No coverage

2. No deductible for 1-20 days

3. Full coverage

4. Deductible applies

The correct answer is: No deductible for 1-20 days

In the context of Medicare coverage for skilled nursing facilities, the correct response is that there is no deductible for the first 20 days. When a beneficiary qualifies for skilled nursing care, Medicare covers the full cost of care in a skilled nursing facility for the first 20 days, provided that specific criteria are met. This coverage is a significant benefit as it allows patients to access necessary care without having to pay out-of-pocket expenses, which is particularly crucial during recovery from hospitalization. Furthermore, this initial period of coverage is specifically designed to support patients who require rehabilitation or skilled nursing care after an inpatient hospital stay, offering essential services without the financial burden of having to meet a deductible. Understanding these aspects of Medicare coverage helps beneficiaries and their families navigate the healthcare system more effectively.