Part B covers a limited amount of home healthcare, under certain circumstances. But it's important to understand that Part B does not cover long-term home care, or care that consists only of nonmedical help (such as help with walking, bathing, eating, dressing).

Home care is covered by Part B only if a participant is confined to home and needs part-time skilled nursing care or physical or speech therapy. If someone qualifies for this skilled care, Part B can also cover some nonmedical help from a part-time aide, as well as medical supplies and equipment. Care must be provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency; individual caregivers aren't covered.
Unlike home care rules under Medicare Part A, Part B home care doesn't require that participants first have had a minimum three-day hospital stay.