Here's What a Hospital Stay Might Cost Medicare Enrollees in 2026

Core Insights - Healthcare costs, particularly hospital care, are significant expenses that need to be considered in retirement budgeting, especially for Medicare enrollees [1][2] Hospital Care Costs - The inpatient deductible for Medicare Part A increased from $1,676 in 2025 to $1,736 this year, indicating rising costs for hospital admissions [3] - The daily coinsurance rate for hospital stays from days 60 to 90 rose from $419 in 2025 to $434 this year, further adding to the financial burden [4] - For hospital stays exceeding 90 days, the daily rate for lifetime reserve days increased from $838 to $868 this year, highlighting the escalating costs associated with prolonged hospital care [4] Medigap Coverage - Medigap is supplemental insurance that can help cover out-of-pocket expenses for Medicare enrollees, including inpatient hospital deductibles and coinsurance [8] - The optimal time to purchase Medigap is during the initial enrollment window, which lasts six months starting from the month an individual turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare Part B, ensuring coverage for pre-existing conditions and access to the best plan rates [9]