Cortney
Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes know that it is not always easy to figure out what parts of Medicare are covering their diabetic supplies and prescriptions related to treatment of diabetes. Medicare beneficiaries who are receiving prescription drug coverage through enrollment in a Medicare Part D plan or through enrollment in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage will have their insulin and supplies related to the injection of insulin covered by their Medicare prescription drug coverage. Supplies related to injection of insulin include:
- Syringes;
- Needles;
- Alcohol swabs;
- and gauze.
In contrast, testing supplies like lancets and test strips continue to be covered under Medicare Part B for those with Original Medicare or through the Part B benefits included as part of a Medicare Advantage plan for those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
For Medicare beneficiaries who receive prescription drug coverage through Wisconsin SeniorCare, SeniorCare covers some insulin and Medicare Part B covers testing supplies. SeniorCare does not provide coverage for syringes, needles, alcohol swabs, and gauze.
Medicare beneficiaries who receive prescription or supplemental health insurance benefits through employment, retiree health coverage, or other sources should consult with the administrators of those plans to determine benefits related to coverage of diabetic treatment and testing supplies.
If you have questions about Medicare coverage of your diabetic prescriptions or testing supplies, contact the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups at (608) 224-0606 and ask to speak with a Dane County Elderly Benefit Specialist.
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