Incontinence supplies help manage bowel and urinary output from the body. These supplies are most commonly used to help protect your clothing, bedding, furniture, and more. Original Medicare helps cover most of your healthcare-related costs, yet it does not cover incontinence supplies or adult diapers.
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Below, we’ll look at some specific situations and give you the details you need to know about Medicare coverage of incontinence supplies.
Does Medicare Cover Incontinence Supplies?
Medicare does not cover any supplies used for incontinence. But there are some Medicare Part C plans available throughout the country that will offer benefits for products like adult diapers. However, these plans are only for specific service areas.
If there are Medicare Advantage plans in your area, you’ll want to review the summary of benefits to identify if coverage extends to adult diapers. Medicare Supplement plans, on the other hand, do not cover incontinence supplies because this coverage type is secondary to Original Medicare. Thus, if Original Medicare doesn’t provide benefits, neither does your Medicare Supplement plan.
Further, in some states, Medicaid will cover incontinence supplies. But Medicaid is a state-run program, so not all states will offer these benefits. Most people must pay for incontinence supplies 100% out-of-pocket.
Does Medicare Cover Adult Diapers?
As a form of incontinence supplies, Medicare does not pay for adult diapers or any disposable supplies not connected to an in-home treatment. You will be responsible for paying for most of the common medical supplies you use at home. This is due to the same reason Medicare won’t cover bandages or gauze.
If your Medicare Advantage plan covers adult diapers, you should take a close look at the summary of benefits. This will uncover the quantity limits and cost limitations of your plans. So, in some cases, only some of your incontinence supplies for the year might be covered – not all of your costs.
Does Medicare Cover Depends Undergarments?
Depends is a well-known brand name for adult diapers. If you need a special brand of incontinence supplies, it’s unlikely you’ll have coverage. Since insurance doesn’t cover disposable supplies, these are your responsibility.
While Medicare won’t help you pay for your Depends, some state Medicaid programs help cover the cost of incontinence supplies.
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You’ll pay the full cost of Depends underwear unless you have a Medicare Advantage plan that covers this benefit. Also, those with Medicaid may have coverage for adult diapers, but there are most likely brand limitations.
You’ll want to contact your state Medicaid office or the Medicare Advantage plan to identify your options. Those with Medicare and Medicaid can select a Dual-Eligible policy to increase benefits.
Why Won’t Medicare Cover Incontinence Supplies?
Medicare will only cover medically necessary items. Adult pads, diapers, and other supplies are not considered medically necessary. Medicare won’t pay for these things. But Medicare will cover appointments and procedures relating to the diagnoses and care of incontinence.
While you can’t make Medicare cover incontinence supplies, there are still a few ways to save money. There are organizations across the United States that help with the cost of adult diapers. Further, shopping online is a great way to buy in bulk and get a discount.
Plus, shipping means you save time and gas money. Other options include couponing and free samples. The internet is your best friend when looking for deals on incontinence supplies.
Additionally, some discount prescription drug cards cover medical supplies.
How Do I Get Assistance for Incontinence Supplies?
If you require help with incontinence supplies or wish to save money on your monthly Medicare premium, our agents can help you identify the policy that makes the most sense for you based on your health needs and situation.
Then, they can walk you through the enrollment process, ensuring no steps are missed along the way. Medicare can be easy when you have the right tools and an agent in your corner.
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If the patient cannot stand by himself or walk to the bathroom will that create a medical need for incontinence supplies? Would Medicare or private insurance then pay for incontinence supplies such as briefs?
Thank you for reaching out! Unfortunately, Medicare does not typically cover any incontinence supplies. I recommend speaking with your doctor about local programs that might be able to help cover these expenses.
Trying to get free depends through medicare
What hcpc code do you use for billing ostomy supplies, bags, wafers, etc.
How many catheters will Medicare cover per month, and what is the hcpc code for billing.
Does Medicare cover for transquality XL brief Pampers products
Hi Eric! Original Medicare does not cover these. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, I would ask your carrier directly to see if it’s included in your summary of benefits.