What type of care is Medicare primarily designed to cover?

Medicare is primarily designed to cover acute care and certain types of skilled nursing care because its main purpose is to provide health insurance for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities. Acute care refers to medical care provided for a short-term illness or a severe injury that requires immediate attention. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, and treatments for acute health issues.

Skilled nursing care, which Medicare may cover, typically involves services that require the expertise of licensed health professionals, such as nurses or therapists, for conditions that need specific medical intervention rather than ongoing custodial support. While Medicare does offer preventive services, its predominant focus remains on treating acute medical conditions and providing necessary skilled nursing care for patients recovering from such incidents.

In contrast, long-term care and custodial care generally focus on assistance with daily living activities and are not usually covered by Medicare. Preventative care, while essential, is only a part of Medicare's broader scope, not its primary functionality. Thus, understanding the nuances of what Medicare covers helps clarify why acute care and certain skilled nursing services are the foundation of Medicare's offerings.