August 14, 2025
Medicare Basics

Critical Access Hospital

What Is a Critical Access Hospital (CAH)?

A Critical Access Hospital (CAH) is a special Medicare designation for small, rural hospitals that meet specific criteria. To qualify, they must have 25 or fewer inpatient beds and be located a certain distance from another hospital.

Why They Matter

CAHs are essential for providing emergency and basic hospital care in remote communities. They receive a more favorable, cost-based reimbursement from Medicare to ensure they can stay financially viable and continue serving their communities.

How Mira Mace Can Help

Your advocate can help you identify CAHs in your area so you know where to go in an emergency. If you require more advanced treatment, we can coordinate your transfer from a CAH to a larger medical center, ensuring a smooth and safe transition of care.