August Is National Immunization Awareness Month
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, making it a great time to review your vaccinations and make sure you’re up to date. Vaccines can help protect you, your family, and your community from serious illnesses—and your health insurance may help cover the cost.
How Does Medicare Cover Vaccines?
Medicare coverage for vaccines depends on the type of vaccine and whether you have Original Medicare with Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Part B covers several important vaccines, including:
- Flu shots
- Pneumococcal vaccines
- Hepatitis B vaccines for eligible individuals
- COVID-19 vaccines
Medicare Part D generally covers adult vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) that aren’t covered under Part B. This includes vaccines such as:
- Shingles
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough)
- RSV
- Other ACIP-recommended adult vaccines
The good news is that recommended vaccines covered by Part D are available at no cost to people with Part D coverage.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your plan must provide at least the same coverage as Original Medicare, although the plan may have its own rules about where you receive your vaccine.
How Does ACA/Marketplace Insurance Cover Vaccines?
Most ACA Marketplace health plans are required to cover certain preventive services, including recommended immunizations, without copayments or coinsurance when you receive them from an in-network provider. In many cases, this applies even if you haven’t met your deductible.
However, coverage can vary depending on the specific vaccine, your age, and your plan. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance company or provider before receiving a vaccine to confirm coverage and whether you need to use an in-network location.
Take Time to Check Your Vaccines
Whether you have Medicare or an ACA Marketplace plan, August is a great reminder to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about which vaccines are recommended for you. Staying current on immunizations is an important part of protecting your health. Contact us if you have question about your current health insurance coverage.