The coronavirus pandemic has left nearly two-hundred thousand people dead and has disrupted everyday life throughout the United States. While the only way for us to return to life as it was prior to the pandemic is to create a safe and effective vaccine, people are wondering if Medicare will cover the cost when the vaccine becomes available to the public.

How Does Medicare Cover Vaccinations?

Medicare covers vaccines in different ways, depending on the vaccine. Sometimes it might be through Medicare Part B, Medicare Part D, or a Medicare Advantage plan.

Part B

Part B covers vaccines for the flu, pneumonia, and Hepatitis B. Medicare covers 100% of the cost of these vaccines as long as you visit an approved provider. You also do not have to pay a deductible or coinsurance. You also need to have Medicare Advantage to get these vaccines at no additional costs.

Part B will also cover vaccines if you are exposed to a dangerous virus or disease, like rabies or tetanus. However, there is a deductible and a 20% coinsurance that you will be responsible for paying.

Part D

Part D covers all other doctor-recommended vaccines, this includes the shingles vaccine and the Tdap vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. The cost of the vaccine varies if you use an in-network provider for your Part D plan.

If you get the vaccine in-network, you will have to cover the co-pay amount. If you decide to get the vaccine out-of-network, then you might have to pay for the entire cost of the vaccine and bill Medicare. Medicare only covers the approved cost, which can sometimes be less than what you paid. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan that covers prescription drugs, it might cover these vaccines.

CARES Act

When it comes to vaccines for COVID-19, the CARES Act states that if a vaccine becomes available, Medicare is required to cover it under Part B, without cost-sharing. Medicare Advantage plans are also required to include the basic coverage offered by Medicare Parts A and B, which means this coverage applies to beneficiaries named in Medicare Advantage plans.

We Can Answer Your Questions Regarding Medicaid Crisis Planning

At Dorcey Law Firm, we know firsthand that disaster can strike without warning, which is why we are committed to using our extensive resources and knowledge of the law to protect our client’s best interests. Our Medicare crisis planning attorneys proudly serve clients throughout the greater Fort Myers area. If you would like to discuss your Medicaid options with a qualified legal professional at our firm, then please reach out to us today.

Call (239) 309-2870 or contact us online to request a consultation so we can help you navigate the Medicaid process.