Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following services would require Medicare's coverage for reimbursement?

1. Regular health screenings without a diagnosis

2. Skilled nursing facility services for the first 20 days

3. Private psychotherapy sessions without prior conditions

4. Preventive health services without referral

The correct answer is: Skilled nursing facility services for the first 20 days

Skilled nursing facility services for the first 20 days are covered by Medicare as long as the patient meets specific eligibility criteria. To qualify for this coverage, an individual must have had a recent hospital stay of at least three days and must require skilled nursing care or rehabilitation services that are deemed medically necessary. Medicare Part A pays for the first 20 days of care in a skilled nursing facility if these requirements are met, making this option the one that clearly falls under Medicare reimbursement policies. In contrast, regular health screenings without a diagnosis generally do not meet the criteria for Medicare coverage unless they fall under specific preventive services outlined by Medicare, which may require a referral or a diagnosis to warrant testing. Private psychotherapy sessions may not be reimbursed if there are no prior conditions established that necessitate ongoing treatment. Preventive health services without a referral may also not be covered, as certain preventive measures may require a physician's referral in order for insurance reimbursement to be applicable. Overall, skilled nursing facility services represent a defined and specific service covered by Medicare, distinctly setting it apart from the other options provided.