Certified Financial Consultant (CFC) Practice Exam

Which type of care is NOT covered by Medicare?

1. Skilled nursing care.

2. Long-term care.

3. Home health care.

4. Inpatient hospital care.

The correct answer is: Long-term care.

Long-term care is not covered by Medicare, which is a critical distinction to understand when navigating healthcare options for older adults or individuals with disabilities. Medicare primarily focuses on providing coverage for medically necessary services that are short-term and rehabilitative in nature. Skilled nursing care, home health care, and inpatient hospital care are all covered under certain conditions. For instance, skilled nursing care is covered when it follows a hospital stay and is part of a plan for rehabilitation. Home health care is also covered when it involves skilled services such as nursing care or therapy prescribed by a doctor, and inpatient hospital care is generally covered when the hospital stay is for a medically necessary condition. Long-term care, on the other hand, refers to a range of services that support personal care needs over an extended period, including assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, typically provided in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Medicare does not cover these services, which is a vital consideration for financial planning and understanding the limitations of Medicare coverage.