Which of the following services does Medicare NOT cover?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily aimed at individuals aged 65 and older, but also serves certain younger individuals with disabilities. The services covered by Medicare are specifically outlined, and it distinguishes between different types of care based on medical necessity and the nature of the services provided.

Long-term custodial care is not covered by Medicare because it generally includes assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, which are typically needed for individuals who are not necessarily receiving medical care. Instead, this type of care is often addressed through Medicaid or private long-term care insurance. Medicare is designed to provide coverage for medical services, short-term rehabilitation, and skilled nursing care that requires constant medical supervision or therapy, but not for ongoing custodial support.

In contrast, emergency room visits, preventative care services, and inpatient hospital stays are all services that Medicare does cover under its various parts, as they relate to acute medical care and necessary treatments. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the scope of Medicare's coverage and the specific needs it addresses.