Does Medicare's lifetime reserve days incur coinsurance costs?

Medicare's lifetime reserve days do indeed incur a coinsurance cost. After a beneficiary has been in the hospital for 90 days, Medicare provides an additional 60 lifetime reserve days, but these days come with certain financial implications. Specifically, there is a coinsurance charge of $838 per day when these reserve days are utilized. This cost is applicable beyond the standard coverage limits set by Medicare, which means that while the first 90 days are covered, any hospital stay that extends beyond that into the use of lifetime reserve days will require the beneficiary to pay the specified daily coinsurance amount.

Understanding this aspect of Medicare coverage is crucial for individuals and families as they plan for potential healthcare needs and costs. It highlights the importance of considering supplemental insurance options that may help cover such additional expenses, especially for longer hospital stays.