There are a lot of misconceptions about Medicare and Medicaid, and both might turn out to be of great importance to you and your family. Based on data summarized by the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), one of the top “myths” and the corresponding “reality” are:
Myth: Medicare and Medicaid are the same program and they cover most of seniors’ health care costs. Older adults have little to pay out-of-pocket, and thus have little incentive to restrict their use of the health care system.
Reality: While Medicare provides essential coverage for physician, drug and hospital bills, and short-term post-acute coverage of home health care, hospice care, and rehabilitation services, beneficiaries pay a substantial amount out of pocket. Plus, and contrary to popular belief, most nursing home stays do not qualify for Medicare coverage.