For how many days will Original Medicare cover Mrs. Shields' skilled nursing services without copay?

Original Medicare covers skilled nursing facility care under specific conditions, primarily after a qualifying hospital stay. For the first 20 days of skilled nursing services, Medicare typically covers the full cost without any copay. This coverage is crucial for patients who require rehabilitation or recovery services post-hospitalization.

After the first 20 days, beneficiaries may be responsible for a copayment for the remaining days up to a total of 100 days, which allows for extended care when necessary. However, during the initial period of skilled nursing stay, the absence of a copayment is significant, ensuring patients receive needed care without financial burden for the first two-thirds of the treatment time covered by Medicare.