What is the maximum number of days Medicare will cover in a skilled nursing facility per benefit period?

Medicare will cover up to 100 days in a skilled nursing facility per benefit period. This coverage is specifically for patients who require skilled nursing care or rehabilitation services after a qualifying hospital stay of at least three days.

During the first 20 days, Medicare covers all costs, and for days 21 through 100, the patient will have to pay a daily coinsurance amount. After the 100th day, coverage stops unless the patient qualifies for additional benefits under certain circumstances. Understanding this limit is crucial for individuals planning for long-term care or rehabilitation needs, as it emphasizes the importance of knowing when different coverage begins and ends.