Antibiotics kill bacteria in the body. Many doctors prescribe them to treat bacterial infections like staph, strep throat, and pneumonia. If you get a bacterial disease, Medicare might cover your antibiotics.
Here’s what you need to know.
Does Medicare Cover Antibiotics?
If you have Original Medicare, your coverage may pay for antibiotics in some situations. For instance, Part A of Medicare typically covers any prescription drugs prescribed during your treatment in a hospital setting. Therefore, if you have a bacterial infection while in the hospital, Medicare Part A would cover the medication.
If you need antibiotics in an outpatient setting, Part B could cover you for those as well. It depends on the situation. For example, if you receive the medication through an infusion at a non-hospital location, Medicare might cover it.
Unfortunately, Original Medicare won’t typically cover prescription drugs purchased at a pharmacy. If you want covered drugs, you need to purchase additional coverage.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D is the prescription drug coverage component of the Medicare program. Through it, Medicare beneficiaries can purchase additional coverage that helps pay for prescription medications. This includes antibiotics.
Medicare Part D works alongside your Part A and Part B coverage, and you must be enrolled in both to purchase a drug coverage plan.
Medicare Advantage
If you have Medicare Advantage, you may receive prescription drug coverage already through your plan. The drug coverage included in Advantage plans generally covers most antibiotics. To find out which antibiotics are covered in your plan, ask your plan provider to show you the formulary.
Call Magellan Healthcare Today!
If you need a health insurance plan that covers prescription drugs, like antibiotics, you should consider purchasing a Medicare Advantage plan or Part D plan. Through additional coverage, you can get help paying for these medications.
Magellan Healthcare can help you find the plan you need. Give us a call at 866-779-3553 to get started with a free consultation.
