Who are considered 'providers' in the context of Medicare?

In the context of Medicare, 'providers' refer to individuals or entities that furnish medical care and services to Medicare beneficiaries. This category is broad and includes physicians, hospitals, and suppliers of care. Physicians are licensed practitioners who provide direct medical services to patients. Hospitals provide comprehensive care to patients, including emergency services, surgeries, and inpatient care. Suppliers of care refer to entities that provide necessary medical equipment, supplies, or services that support patient treatment.

By defining providers in this way, the Medicare system ensures that a wide range of healthcare services is accessible to beneficiaries, catering to various healthcare needs, from primary and specialty medical care to medical supplies and rehabilitation services. This comprehensive approach is vital for delivering continuity of care and managing the complex health needs of older adults and other eligible groups.

While other options mention specific types of providers, like specialists or pharmacies, they do not encompass the full range of entities recognized by Medicare. It's important to understand this inclusive definition to navigate medical billing and coding effectively within the Medicare framework.