Finance
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Get Hospital Medicare Reimbursement?

Helen Akers
Helen Akers

The procedure for obtaining hospital Medicare reimbursement depends on the type of care received, the individual's Medicare coverage, and the location where treatment was received. Medicare is a type of government subsidized insurance plan in the United States that gives certain income and age groups access to health care services. There are two types of medicare coverage, known as "Part A" and "Part B," that reimburse patients for inpatient hospital treatment and regular, outpatient medical procedures. It is best to contact Medicare plan administrators in order to get detailed information on what costs each type of coverage will reimburse and how that reimbursement will be distributed.

In the majority of cases, most U.S. hospitals that accept Medicare coverage will automatically bill the plan for reimbursement on behalf of the insured. The patient may be responsible for co-payments and the costs of treatments that exceed coverage limits or the scope of Medicare coverage. Medicare plan administrators routinely update a list of potential injuries, illnesses, surgeries and treatments that are eligible for reimbursement under both types of coverage.

Medicare "Part A" covers in-patient care, and hospitals typically bill the plan automatically.
Medicare "Part A" covers in-patient care, and hospitals typically bill the plan automatically.

"Part A" covers inpatient treatments, which are also eligible for hospital Medicare reimbursement if they are administered outside of the United States in certain circumstances. For example, in the case of a medical emergency that occurs in the U.S., if the nearest hospital is located in a foreign country, Medicare will often reimburse the patient for his treatment costs. U.S. residents may also receive hospital Medicare reimbursement if the nearest hospital to the patient's residence is located in a foreign country. Inpatient treatments require overnight admission to the hospital's main unit and are usually requested by a doctor.

Medicare reimbursements depend on several factors, including the type of care the individual received at the hospital.
Medicare reimbursements depend on several factors, including the type of care the individual received at the hospital.

Unlike U.S. hospitals, some foreign hospitals may not bill Medicare directly for reimbursement. If a hospital stay occurs at a foreign location, it is important to keep copies of all bills and invoices received from the doctor as well as the hospital. Proof of treatment and its associated costs typically must be sent in to receive hospital Medicare reimbursement from care administered at a foreign hospital. "Part A" coverage usually only covers treatment received while the patient stayed at the hospital and does not include emergency transportation.

A Medicare patient may still be responsible for co-payments.
A Medicare patient may still be responsible for co-payments.

"Part B" coverage provides hospital Medicare reimbursement for outpatient services that do not require overnight admission. In some cases, emergency surgery, medical care, and ambulance or helicopter transportation to a treatment facility may be eligible for reimbursement. "Part B" is also known as regular medical insurance under Medicare's reimbursement terms.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Medicare "Part A" covers in-patient care, and hospitals typically bill the plan automatically.
      By: Fotoluminate LLC
      Medicare "Part A" covers in-patient care, and hospitals typically bill the plan automatically.
    • Medicare reimbursements depend on several factors, including the type of care the individual received at the hospital.
      By: sudok1
      Medicare reimbursements depend on several factors, including the type of care the individual received at the hospital.
    • A Medicare patient may still be responsible for co-payments.
      By: Kenishirotie
      A Medicare patient may still be responsible for co-payments.
    • "Part B" coverage provides hospital Medicare reimbursement for outpatient services that do not require overnight admission.
      By: Andrew Gentry
      "Part B" coverage provides hospital Medicare reimbursement for outpatient services that do not require overnight admission.
    • Individuals with Medicare Part B may have to meet a deductible prior to receiving medical coverage.
      By: Monkey Business
      Individuals with Medicare Part B may have to meet a deductible prior to receiving medical coverage.