How Long Does Medicare Really Pay for a Nursing Home?

Written By:author avatarJesica L. Thorson
author avatarJesica L. Thorson
Jesica L. Thorson is a Partner and Elder Law Attorney.
Wondering how long Medicare will really pay for a nursing home stay? Original Medicare (Part A) covers skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay, but only for a limited period—and under strict conditions. Find out how coverage works, what daily copays to expect after day 20, and what to do when your Medicare benefits expire.