Medicare Diabetes Coverage
Diabetes Screenings, Supplies, and Self-Management Training
How often is it covered?
Medicare covers up to two Fasting Blood Glucose tests each year.
Who’s eligible?
Medicare covers these tests for people who have any of the following risk factors: high blood pressure (hypertension), history of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels (dyslipidemia), obesity, or a history of high blood sugar (glucose). Medicare also covers these tests if you answer yes to two or more of the following questions:
* Are you age 65 or older?
* Are you overweight?
* Do you have a family history of diabetes (parents, brothers, sisters)?
* Do you have a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy), or delivery of a baby weighing more than 9 pounds?
Your costs in Original Medicare
You pay nothing for the test if your doctor accepts assignment.
Diabetes Glucose Monitors, Test Strips, and Lancets
How often is it covered?
Medicare covers blood sugar testing monitors, blood sugar test strips, lancet devices and lancets, blood sugar control solutions, and therapeutic shoes (in some cases). Insulin is only covered if used with an external insulin pump.
Note: Insulin and certain medical supplies used to inject insulin, such as syringes, and some oral diabetic drugs may be covered by Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D).
Who’s eligible?
All people with Medicare who have diabetes.
Your costs in Original Medicare
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the yearly Part B deductible.
Diabetes Self-Management Training
How often is it covered?
Medicare covers diabetes self-management training.
Who’s eligible?
This training is for certain people with Medicare who are at risk for complications from diabetes. You must have a written order from a doctor or other health care provider.
Your costs in Original Medicare
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the yearly Part B deductible.
Source: http://www.medicare.gov/navigation/manage-your-health/preventive-services/diabetes-screening.aspx
