When does a Medicare Part A benefit period begin?

When does a Medicare Part A benefit period begin?

• A. When you are admitted to a hospital
• B. When you start Part B
• C. When you enroll in Medicare Advantage
• D. When you enter a SNF

Answer: (A)

Medicare Part A benefit periods start on the day you are admitted as an inpatient for care in a hospital (the same timing applies if you’re admitted as an inpatient to a skilled nursing facility for skilled care). Inpatient admission is the trigger that initiates the period during which Part A benefits are used. The period ends after 60 consecutive days without any inpatient hospital or SNF care, and if you’re readmitted after that break, a new benefit period begins. Enrollment in Part B or Medicare Advantage does not start a Part A benefit period.

Medicare Part A benefit periods start on the day you are admitted as an inpatient for care in a hospital (the same timing applies if you’re admitted as an inpatient to a skilled nursing facility for skilled care). Inpatient admission is the trigger that initiates the period during which Part A benefits are used. The period ends after 60 consecutive days without any inpatient hospital or SNF care, and if you’re readmitted after that break, a new benefit period begins. Enrollment in Part B or Medicare Advantage does not start a Part A benefit period.