'Under Observation' versus 'In-Patient' (plan, hospital, coverage, Connecticut)

[highcotton]

'Under Observation' versus 'In-Patient'

This was on NBC News the other night. People on Medicare should be aware that you do NOT want the hospital to admit you with the words 'Under Observation'. Insist on being admitted with an 'In-Patient' designation. Otherwise, you will be responsible for the hospital and/or rehab expenses instead of using Medicare.

[Ariadne22]

They're kind of late reporting this. Discussed as a Catch 22 last year, here:

NEWS: Judge tosses lawsuit re "Observation" status

[old_cold]

Originally Posted by highcotton

'Under Observation' versus 'In-Patient'

This was on NBC News the other night. People on Medicare should be aware that you do NOT want the hospital to admit you with the words 'Under Observation'. Insist on being admitted with an 'In-Patient' designation. Otherwise, you will be responsible for the hospital and/or rehab expenses instead of using Medicare.

Misleading.
Medicare pays for this even if on an outpatient status.
Medicare Part A pays for hospital coverage.
You may pay more in co-pays for various segments, depending on what is done and may have to use Parts B and D but don't get the idea that you won't be covered at all.

http://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/11435.pdf

[texdav]

From what I observed its more a Medicaid policy than hospital plan to get more money. Hospitals have to justify coded treatment to admit over observing. It saves Medicare money if they restrict admission.

[Ariadne22]

The Catch22 arises when one is moved from observation to rehab/skilled nursing.

Because they did not spend at least three consecutive hospital days as admitted patients, Medicare will not pay for their nursing home care.

Judge Dismisses Hospital ‘Observation Care’ Lawsuit | Connecticut Health Investigative Team