Which aspect of care does Medicare Part A not cover?

Medicare Part A primarily covers a range of inpatient health services, including hospital stays, hospice services, skilled nursing facility care for short rehabilitation, and some home health care. However, when it comes to long-term care, Medicare Part A does not provide coverage. Long-term care typically involves assistance with daily living activities over an extended period, which goes beyond the scope of short-term rehabilitation services that Medicare is designed to support.

Hospice services, short rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities, and home health care can all be covered, provided they meet the necessary criteria. For example, hospice care must be for terminally ill patients, and skilled nursing and home health care are intended for temporary needs following a hospital stay. The distinct focus of Medicare Part A on acute and episodic care is what excludes long-term care from its coverage.