Medicare Enrollment
What Medicare Part A Covers and Eligibility for Premium-Free Hospital Insurance
Verified against SSA POMS as of July 23, 2026
The short answer
Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. Eligibility for premium-free Part A depends on work history and other criteria including age or disability status.
Medicare Part A Covered Services
Medicare Part A assists in covering costs associated with inpatient hospital care, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and certain home health care services.
HBK 0127 View source ›Eligibility for Premium-Free Part A
To be eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A, beneficiaries typically need to have worked a sufficient number of quarters (40), equivalent to at least 10 years, or be eligible through the work history of a spouse. Those who do not qualify for premium-free Part A can purchase it if certain conditions are met.
HI 00815.001 View source ›Cost of Non-Premium-Free Part A
Individuals ineligible to obtain premium-free Part A may purchase it. If a beneficiary has a work history of 30-39 quarters, Part A may be purchased for $311/month. Less than 30 quarters of work history requires a monthly premium of $565/month.
HI 00805.350 View source ›Frequently asked
What does Medicare Part A cover?
Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
Who qualifies for premium-free Part A?
Typically, individuals qualify for premium-free Part A if they have enough work history (40 quarters) or are eligible through the work history of a spouse.
Can I buy Medicare Part A if I'm not eligible for free coverage?
Yes, individuals who do not qualify for premium-free Part A may purchase coverage if they meet certain conditions.
How much is the Medicare Part A premium if it's not free?
Individuals ineligible to obtain premium-free Part A may purchase it. If a beneficiary has a work history of 30-39 quarters, Part A may be purchased for $311/month in 2026. Less than 30 quarters of work history requires a monthly premium of $565/month in 2026.