14. How do I know if my loved one qualifies for Medicare Part A benefits?

Your loved one must have a Medicare card that reads "hospital insurance" and must have spent a minimum of three consecutive days (not counting the day of discharge) in a hospital. The hospital stay must not have occurred more than 30 days prior to entering the nursing home. Further, a physician must certify that your loved one needs skilled nursing or skilled rehabilitation care on a continuing basis, and the need for skilled care must relate to the reason for hospitalization.