What is Medicare Part A?

Medicare Part A is a type of insurance coverage offered by the U.S. federal government. Part A is designed to cover services that are considered a medical necessity in regards to treating a patient's illness or chronic medical condition. Consumers have to meet the requirements to sign up for Medicare.

Examples of services that may be covered under Medicare Part A include lab work, necessary surgical procedures and doctor's visits. Medicare Part A can also cover nursing home stays, home health services and hospice care. Short term rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility may also be covered under Medicare Part A.