First 20 days in a benefit period

Medicare Part A covers the full cost of skilled nursing care for the first 20 days in a benefit period, after which the individual is responsible for a daily copayment for days 21-100. The amount of the copayment can vary from year to year and is set by Medicare. If an individual has a Medigap policy, it may cover some or all of the copayment for skilled nursing care. It's important for individuals to check their specific coverage and benefits to fully understand their out-of-pocket costs.