How long does Part A of Medicare cover inpatient hospitalization before additional charges apply?

Part A of Medicare covers inpatient hospitalization for up to 90 days during a benefit period before any additional charges begin to apply. This coverage is particularly important as it provides a substantial amount of time for patients to receive necessary medical care without incurring extra costs.

After the initial 90 days, if a patient continues to require hospitalization, Medicare allows for an additional 60 days of inpatient care, but this is subject to a daily coinsurance payment. Understanding these limits is crucial for anyone involved with Medicare, as it impacts both beneficiaries and those assisting them in managing their healthcare needs.

The benefit period does not reset until the patient has been out of the hospital or skilled nursing facility for 60 consecutive days, which further emphasizes the importance of being aware of the coverage limits for financial planning and care decisions.