Does Medicare Cover In-Home Physical Therapy in 2026?

Recovering at home after surgery, illness, or a fall sounds like the best option — but the big question is whether Medicare in-home physical therapy coverage 2026 will pay for it. With rehab costs climbing and more seniors choosing to age in place, understanding Medicare’s rules could be the difference between covered care and unexpected bills.

That’s where our broker at Skyline Benefit comes in. We explain how Medicare covers in-home physical therapy, compare Original Medicare and Advantage plans, and make sure you enroll in the right option for your health and budget — at no extra cost.

How Does Medicare In-Home Physical Therapy Coverage 2026 Work?

Original Medicare (Part B) covers in-home therapy when it’s:

• Medically necessary and ordered by your doctor
• Provided while you are homebound (it’s a major effort to leave home)
• Delivered by a Medicare-certified home health agency

What you’ll pay in 2026:

• Part B deductible: $288
• 20% coinsurance for each approved service after the deductible

How Do Medicare Advantage Plans Handle In-Home Therapy in 2026?

Medicare Advantage must cover the same basics as Part B, but in 2026 many plans expand benefits with:

• $0 copays for certain home health visits
• Added occupational or speech therapy in the home
• Home support services, such as nursing or aides

Keep in mind, many Advantage plans require prior authorization or set visit limits. Our broker at Skyline Benefit will confirm these details so you’re not surprised mid-treatment.

Can Medicare Deny In-Home Physical Therapy in 2026?

Yes — if your doctor doesn’t certify medical necessity, or if you’re not considered homebound, Medicare can refuse coverage. Advantage plans may also deny if you skip prior authorization. This makes it critical to get your paperwork in order before starting therapy.

How Long Will Medicare Pay for In-Home Therapy?

• Original Medicare: Coverage continues as long as you are making progress and your doctor recertifies the therapy. Coverage may end once improvement levels off.
• Advantage plans: Some offer more generous visit limits, but each plan’s Evidence of Coverage outlines specific rules.

Medicare In-Home Physical Therapy vs Skilled Nursing Care

• In-home PT (Part B or Advantage): Must be doctor-prescribed, homebound, and provided by a certified agency.
• Skilled Nursing Facility (Part A): Up to 100 days covered, but daily copays apply after Day 20.

Our broker at Skyline Benefit helps you weigh whether in-home recovery or a skilled facility makes more sense based on your health and finances.

Who Benefits Most From Medicare In-Home Physical Therapy Coverage in 2026?

• Seniors recovering from surgery or joint replacement
• People with chronic conditions who can’t easily leave home
• Members on Advantage plans offering $0 home health copays

What Are the Alternatives If Medicare Won’t Cover It?

If Medicare in-home physical therapy coverage 2026 doesn’t apply, you still have options:

• Outpatient physical therapy under Part B
• Short-term rehab in a Skilled Nursing Facility under Part A
• Supplemental Medigap or Advantage plan benefits that lower coinsurance

Need Help With Medicare In-Home Physical Therapy Coverage 2026?

Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare insurance broker that works for you. We specialize in helping seniors understand Medicare in-home physical therapy coverage 2026, compare Original Medicare vs Advantage benefits, and enrol with confidence.

Schedule a consultation today. Call us at: (714) 888-5112