When families begin exploring in-home care for an aging parent, one of the first questions is about cost: Does Medicare cover home care in Florida?
It’s an important question — and the answer is yes, but with limitations. Medicare can help cover certain skilled medical services at home, but it does not include every type of care. Understanding what’s covered and what’s not helps families plan with confidence and avoid unexpected costs.
What Medicare Covers
Medicare Part A and Part B typically cover medically necessary, short-term care that is ordered by a doctor. This coverage is designed to help patients recover from illness, injury, or surgery while remaining in the comfort of their home.
Covered services may include:
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Skilled nursing care: Short-term medical care such as wound treatment, injections, or monitoring after hospitalization. Learn more about wound care in Jacksonville.
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Therapy services: Physical, occupational, or speech therapy to support recovery and mobility.
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Medical social services: Emotional and social support that helps patients and families adjust to new care routines. Explore our palliative care options.
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Home health aide support: Limited assistance with personal care, such as bathing or dressing, when combined with skilled medical services.
To qualify, care must meet certain requirements:
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It must be medically necessary and prescribed by a physician.
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The care must be provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency.
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The patient must be considered homebound, requiring help to leave home safely.
What Medicare Does Not Cover
It’s equally important to understand what Medicare doesn’t pay for. Many families are surprised to learn that long-term, non-medical, or full-time care is not included.
Medicare does not cover:
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24-hour or live-in care at home
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Private duty care such as meal preparation, companionship, or housekeeping
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Custodial care when it’s the only service needed
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Long-term or ongoing care for chronic conditions
These services fall under non-medical or personal care and are typically paid for privately or through other programs. Families seeking ongoing support often choose private pay home care for flexible assistance tailored to their loved one’s needs.
Florida-Specific Considerations
In Florida, seniors have additional options that can help offset the cost of home care. Some of these include:
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Medicaid Waivers: Florida’s Medicaid programs may cover certain home and community-based care services for eligible seniors.
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Veterans’ Benefits: Veterans and their spouses may qualify for assistance through programs like the VA Aid & Attendance benefit.
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Long-Term Care Insurance: Certain private plans can help cover non-medical or extended care not included under Medicare.
Many Jacksonville families find that combining Medicare-covered skilled nursing services with private duty or companion care provides the most complete and comfortable support at home.
How Families Can Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is the best way to ensure your loved one’s needs are fully met. Here’s how families can prepare:
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Review your loved one’s current Medicare plan and understand its limitations.
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Ask providers if they’re Medicare-certified before starting services.
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Explore insurance options for home care to fill any coverage gaps.
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Budget for out-of-pocket expenses related to non-medical or daily living support.
Being proactive allows families to make informed decisions and avoid financial stress during times of need.
Common Questions About Medicare and Home Care
Will Medicare cover 24/7 home care?
No. Medicare only covers part-time or intermittent skilled medical care — not around-the-clock or custodial support.
Does Medicare cover companionship or help with daily living?
No. These non-medical services must be paid privately or through other programs.
Can Medicare be combined with other programs?
Yes. Families can combine Medicare with Medicaid, veterans’ benefits, or private long-term care insurance to expand their coverage.
Conclusion
While Medicare can ease the cost of skilled medical care at home, it doesn’t cover everything. Knowing where coverage begins and ends helps families plan confidently and ensure their loved ones get the care they deserve.
By combining Medicare benefits with private pay or supplemental insurance, you can provide full support — from medical recovery to everyday companionship.
Check your eligibility for coverage today and learn how All At Home Care can help guide you through your options.