If a patient spends at least three days in the hospital, Part A will cover home healthcare for a short time after discharge. (Without that hospital stay, short-term home care can be covered by Medicare Part B. Part A covers home care only if, and as long as, a patient is confined to home and needs part-time skilled nursing care or physical or speech therapy. If a patient only needs someone to help with daily activities -- like bathing, dressing, eating -- Part A won't cover home care. If a patient qualifies for part-time nursing or therapy, Part A can also cover some additional help from a part-time aide, as well as medical supplies and equipment. Care must be provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency, and individual caregivers aren't covered.