A common misconception is that Medicare won’t cover a hospital stay if a patient leaves against medical advice. In reality, Medicare coverage is based on medical necessity, not how or when a patient is discharged. If an inpatient stay meets Medicare’s “two-midnight rule,” it is generally payable even if the patient leaves earlier than expected.
Learn more
- Debunking Regulatory Myths: Do Medicare and other payers deny payment for hospital services if a patient leaves against medical advice?
- Toolkit: Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)
