108 Medicare Terms Defined

Medicare Glossary

Plain-English definitions for every Medicare term — from ABN to ZIP enrollment. No jargon, no confusion.

Terms starting with "O" — 1 term

O

Observation Status

Part B

A classification used when a hospital monitors your condition before deciding whether to formally admit you. Even if you stay overnight, observation status is considered outpatient care (Part B), not inpatient (Part A). This distinction matters for skilled nursing facility eligibility.

Also known as: Outpatient observation

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