Yes, hospital services provided at a medical facility are covered by Medicare. In a nursing home, hospice care helps patients, families, and nursing home staff by providing resources and support at the end of life. The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers services, drugs, supplies and equipment related to a life-limiting illness. However, room and board expenses are not covered. Medicaid often covers these room and board costs for skilled nursing care if the patient meets the state’s financial requirements.
Medicare and Medicaid Hospice coverage also includes emergency room and inpatient care, which may also be provided for short-term nursing home stays. If the hospice team recognizes the need for respite care or institutional care, the total cost of treatment is covered by the hospice grant.