Hospitals declare Medicare Seniors as "Outpatients-Under Observation" rather than "Admitting" them when they check into the hospital. The "Outpatient-Under Observation classification is erroneously used by hospitals instead of "Admitted" without notifying seniors. This classification subsequently denies Seniors up to 21 days of Medicare rehabilitation nursing care coverage. The Medicare regulation requires seniors must be "Admitted" for a minimum of 3 days at the transferring primary hospital to qualify for rehabilitation nursing care. Medicare must regulate hospitals' use of this classification and require patient written notice or drop the classification. The "Outpatient Under Observation" classification in place of the patients believed "Admitted" classification denies patients rehabilitation nursing care. AARP states this practice is costing seniors thousands (REF. AARP Bulletin article "Being Observed-It Can Cost You Plenty" published October 2012 Vol 53 No.8).