- True or False: There's no need to worry about paying for a nursing home stay. Medicare will pay for everything.
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False. Medicare does not pay for long-term nursing home care.
If a beneficiary has had a three-night stay in a hospital, and a physician says skilled nursing care is required, Medicare may cover up to 100 days of the beneficiary's nursing home stay.
But you cannot depend on Medicare to cover nursing home expenses.
Two options that may help pay for nursing home care
- Medicaid is a state government program that helps people with limited income and assets pay medical costs. If you qualify for Medicaid in your state, the program will help pay for living in a nursing home.
- Long-term care insurance can help soften the blow of the nursing home bill. Visit with an insurance agent to determine policy options and costs.
While the cost of a nursing home stay can be financially draining, knowing your options can help ease the burden on you and your family.
Medicare Coverage & Nursing Homes