Guide to Medicare Coverage for Incontinence Supplies
Original Medicare, which is Parts A and B, doesn't cover absorbent incontinence supplies.
That includes adult diapers, underwear and pads. But Medicare Advantage plans often have extra perks and you might find one that covers incontinence supplies. And Original Medicare does cover catheters and several incontinence treatments.
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Does Medicare cover incontinence supplies?
Original Medicare doesn't cover adult diapers or other absorbent incontinence supplies.
If you only have Medicare Parts A and B, called Original Medicare, you'll have to pay for these products yourself. That's because Medicare doesn't view incontinence supplies as medical treatment or equipment. Instead, they're personal hygiene products.
Medicare Advantage plans and incontinence supplies
Medicare Advantage plans, also called Part C plans, might cover incontinence supplies. That's because Medicare Advantage plans often include extra perks outside of the regular medical coverage.
But Medicare Advantage plans aren't right for everyonet. Picking a plan just because it covers incontinence supplies could leave you with high bills if the plan doesn't meet your other medical needs. Instead, you should first look for a plan that fits all your medical needs. Then, if the plan covers your supplies, you can view it as a helpful perk.
Does Medicare cover treatments for incontinence?
Medicare covers many different treatments for incontinence.
Some common treatments that Medicare covers include:
- Medications: If you have a Medicare Part D plan, you'll likely have coverage for a variety of incontinence medications.
- Catheters: If you need a catheter to help drain your bladder, you can get them through Medicare. The number you can get depends on what kind of catheter you need and your doctor's recommendations.
- Pelvic floor stimulation: Medicare covers pelvic floor stimulation treatment, but only the kind that doesn't involve an implant. And you only have coverage if you have tried pelvic floor muscle exercises and they haven't worked.
- Botox: Medicare covers Botox for incontinence but only if a type of medication called an anticholinergic hasn't worked for you or you can't take it.
- Sacral nerve stimulation: Medicare covers this treatment for urge incontinence, overactive bladder and urinary retention problems, which can make it difficult to empty your bladder.
If your doctor says you need surgery for incontinence, Medicare might cover it. But it depends on the type of surgery, so it's best to talk to your doctor and check with Medicare first.
Not all incontinence treatments are covered. If your doctor recommends a particular treatment, it's a good idea to check that Medicare covers it before you get it done. You can use the Medicare Coverage Database to find info about coverage for specific treatments.
How to get cheap or free incontinence supplies
Diaper banks and community programs might be able to help you get cheap or free incontinence supplies.
You can use the National Diaper Bank Network to find a diaper bank near you. While most diaper banks focus on products for babies, they may also have adult diapers and other incontinence products. You might also be able to get help through a community program in your area.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicare cover adult diapers?
No, Medicare doesn't cover adult diapers or other incontinence products. Medicare does cover several incontinence treatments, though. If you have problems with incontinence, talk to your doctor about treatment options. You can check the Medicare Coverage Database to check if Medicare covers your treatment.
Why doesn't Medicare pay for incontinence supplies?
Medicare considers absorbent incontinence supplies like adult diapers and pads to be personal hygiene products rather than medical treatment or medical equipment. But Medicare usually covers treatments for incontinence, like catheters and surgery..
Are incontinence supplies covered by Medicaid?
Medicaid covers some incontinence supplies in most states. But Medicaid coverage changes depending on where you live, so it's always best to check with your state program to make sure.
Sources
Sources for this article include Medicare.gov, the Medicare Coverage Database, the National Association for Continence and the National Diaper Bank Network.
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