Which is required for Medicare coverage of skilled nursing facility care?

The requirement that the facility must be approved by Medicare is crucial because Medicare only covers skilled nursing facility (SNF) care if the facility meets specific standards set by the program. These standards ensure that the facility provides appropriate medical care and services to patients, adhering to Medicare's guidelines. This includes having proper staffing, equipment, and services that align with the needs of the patient.

For Medicare to cover care in a skilled nursing facility, it is necessary for that facility to be certified or approved by Medicare. This approval signifies that the facility complies with federal regulations and is therefore eligible to provide covered services, ensuring that beneficiaries receive quality care. Without this approval, Medicare will not cover the cost of care in that facility, regardless of the need for skilled nursing services.

The other choices suggest requirements that do not align with Medicare's criteria for covering skilled nursing care. For instance, medical necessity is assessed but it does not have to extend for a year, nor must the insured elect a special benefit in lieu of regular coverage. Furthermore, while a facility must provide care during the covered period, their agreement to continue care after benefits end is not a requirement for the initial coverage. Hence, the requirement for Medicare approval of the facility becomes the central criterion.