Are you up-to-date on your vaccines? Don’t worry, Medicare vaccine coverage is an option!
Vaccines are vital in preventing unnecessary illnesses. It’s important to know what type of coverage you have when it comes to your vaccines to stay healthy. Medicare vaccine coverage has guidelines that you can easily follow.
Influenza
Medicare Part B covers a seasonal flu shot without any copay. Medicare Advantage also covers the costs for a flu shot as long as you visit an in-network provider.
There are two options for your flu shot, and Medicare covers them both. There is a regular strength and a high dose. The higher dose shot will provide extra immunity that is often recommended for anyone over the age of 65 years old.
Pneumonia
Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage cover one pneumococcal vaccine, then another one year after your first shot. The shot is recommended for anyone 65 or older.
The pneumococcal disease spreads by direct contact with people already infected and can cause different types of illnesses as small as a mild ear infection to full-blown pneumonia. Receiving the vaccine helps prevent the spread.
Hepatitis B
Medicare Part B will cover the Hepatitis B shots for people who are considered to be high or medium risk. If you think that you may be at risk, consult with your doctor to see if you qualify. The Medicare vaccine coverage for Hepatitis B is offered under both Part B and Medicare Advantage.
Hepatitis B is a liver disease that is spread through bodily fluids. The severity of the virus can range from a mild illness that only lasts a few weeks to something that is life-long and can seriously affect your liver.
Shingles
Medicare Part D is required to cover the one-time vaccine for Shingles. There are specific rules on how to administer the shingles vaccine. For details on what your Medicare vaccine coverage is under your Part D plan, you will need to contact your plan to figure out where you can get the vaccine and how much you will have to pay.
Shingles is a skin rash that is caused by the same virus as chickenpox. The rash is extremely painful and adults that are at least 50 years of age are most at risk.
If you have any questions about your coverage or what kind of vaccines you may need, contact your doctor for further information.
Additional vaccines may be covered by Medicare Part D and some Medicare Advantage plans. Review your coverage to see if you qualify for vaccines such as BCG, certain insulin shots, MMR, and meningococcal.
