Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which type of care does Medicare not cover?

1. Routine check-ups

2. Cosmetic surgery

3. Emergency room visits

4. In-patient hospital stays

The correct answer is: Cosmetic surgery

Medicare typically does not cover cosmetic surgery because this type of procedure is considered elective and is primarily performed for aesthetic reasons rather than for health-related issues. Medicare is designed to provide coverage for necessary medical services aimed at diagnosing and treating illnesses or injuries. While there may be specific circumstances under which certain cosmetic procedures could be deemed medically necessary and covered—for example, reconstructive surgery following an accident—most routine cosmetic enhancements like facelifts or breast augmentations do not meet this criterion. In contrast, the other care types mentioned are generally covered by Medicare under various parts. Routine check-ups are not usually covered because Medicare emphasizes covering services that are deemed medically necessary rather than preventive services, though there are some exceptions for certain preventive services. Emergency room visits are covered when they are deemed necessary for acute medical conditions, and in-patient hospital stays are also typically covered if the individual requires hospitalization for treatment of a covered condition. Thus, the emphasis on aesthetic versus medically necessary interventions clarifies why cosmetic surgery falls outside of Medicare’s coverage.