Skilled Nursing Facility Care

Skilled nursing facilities provide a high level of medical care that includes nursing, rehabilitation, and other care, including medications. Skilled nursing facilities are not nursing homes or intermediate facilities

  • You may qualify if you: 
    • are treated in a hospital for at least three consecutive days, not including the day of discharge, and
    • you enter the skilled nursing facility within 30 days of the hospital discharge.
  • No day limit as long as the care is medically necessaryTo be medically necessary means it is appropriate, reasonable, and adequate for your condition..
  • You need pre-authorization.
    • Note: If you’re a TRICARE For Life beneficiary, you need a pre-authorization beginning on day 101.

    Covered skilled nursing services includes:

    • A semi-private room
    • Regular nursing services
    • Meals (including special diets)
    • Physical, occupational and speech therapy
    • Drugs provided by the facility
    • Medical supplies and appliances

    Skilled nursing services are covered only in the United States, District of Columbia and U.S. Territories.

    See Also:

    Disclaimer:

    This list of covered services is not all inclusive. TRICARE covers services that are medically necessary and considered proven. There are special rules or limits on certain services, and some services are excluded.

    Last Updated 6/14/2023