About Medicare
Medicare Coverage of COVID-19 Related Items
Let’s face it: COVID-19 has plagued us all since year 2020 and since then a lot has changed. Mask mandates, vaccines and testing continues to be a hot topic. But this doesn’t change the fact that many still need aid when facing the virus. If you find yourself needing any COVID-related services, it is important to know where to get them and what is covered.
Vaccines:
If you have Medicare, FDA-Authorized vaccines and boosters are covered at no cost to you. If you are age 50+ and/or immunocompromised, you may be able to get a second booster if needed, at no additional cost. Remember, your provider cannot charge you for an office visit or other fee if the vaccine is the only medical service you get.
Testing:
Medicare covers FDA-Authorized COVID-19 and antibody tests at testing sites. Recently, Medicare announced that they will now cover up to 8 over the counter COVID-19 tests each calendar month, also at no cost. You will have to show your Medicare card when receiving the tests. Note: These tests are covered under Part B of Medicare. If you only have Part A you may still be able to receive the at home tests at no cost through other programs.
Monoclonal Antibody Treatments:
Medicare covers FDA-Authorized monoclonal antibody treatments for COVID-19 if certain criteria apply, for example: You have a positive COVID-19 test and have a mild to moderate case of COVID but you are at a high risk of developing a severe case of COVID and/or requiring hospitalization. If you meet these criteria, you will pay nothing for the monoclonal antibody treatments you get from Medicare providers or suppliers.
Hospital Coverage:
Medicare covers inpatient hospital care if you are admitted to a hospital as per a doctor’s order which states you need inpatient hospital care OR if the hospital’s Utilization Review Committee approves your stay while you’re admitted. The hospital must accept Medicare for it to be covered. Note: if your doctor recommends services that are not covered by Medicare, you could be liable for some or all costs. Be sure to ask questions up front so you are aware if the services will be covered by Medicare.
While Medicare does cover many services now, it is important to note that these items may change, or cease to be covered, once the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
More information on this topic can be found at https://www.medicare.gov/medicare-coronavirus
For help with Medicare plans – or any questions you may have about Medicare – contact AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service at 1-855-611-4856 or request a quote below!
