C E N T E R S F O R M E D I C A R E & M E D I C A I D S E R V I C E S YOURMEDICARE

BENEFITS

This official government guide 

has important information 

about:

•	 The services and supplies 

Original Medicare covers

•	 How much you pay

•	 Where to get more information
This booklet describes the health care services and supplies that Medicare 

covers, and how to get those benefits through Medicare Part A (Hospital 

Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance). It includes: 

•	 What specific benefits you can get and when

•	 How much Medicare pays for each service and how much you pay

•	 Where to get your questions answered

The Affordable Care Act has made many improvements to Medicare. If you have 

Original Medicare, you can get a yearly “Wellness” visit (see page 47) and many 

other covered preventive services.

“Your Medicare Benefits” lists many, but not all, of the items and services that 

Medicare covers. If you have a question about a test, item, or service that isn’t listed 

in this booklet, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). 

TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

The information about services and supplies listed in this booklet applies to 

all people with Original Medicare. The information in this booklet doesn’t apply 

to you if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) or another 

Medicare health plan. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare 

health plan, you have the same basic benefits as people who have Original Medicare, 

but the rules vary by plan. Some services and supplies may not be listed because the 

coverage depends on where you live. To find out more, visit Medicare.gov or call 

1-800-MEDICARE.

THIS

BOOK

C E N T E R S F O R M E D I C A R E & M E D I C A I D S E R V I C E S ABOUT
3

TABLEOF

CONTENTS

Section 1: List of topics 5

Section 2: What Original Medicare covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Section 3: For more information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Section 4: Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
4

Notes
5

SECTION

1 List of topics

An alphabetical list of what’s in this guide

A 

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening 12

Acupuncture 12

Air-fluidized beds 27–28

Alcohol misuse screenings & counseling 13

Ambulance services 13, 55

Ambulatory surgical centers 13, 61

Anesthesia 14

Appeal 12, 61

Artificial limbs & eyes 14

Assignment 11, 61

B 

Barium enema 18–19

Benefit period 36, 50–52, 62

Blood 14

Blood processing & handling 14

Blood sugar (glucose) monitors 22, 23–25

Bone mass measurement 15

Braces 15, 40

Breast prostheses 15, 21, 48

Breast reconstruction 15
6 Section 1: List of topics

C–H

C 

Canes 16, 27–28

Cardiac rehabilitation program 16

Cardiovascular disease (behavior therapy) 16

Cardiovascular disease screenings 17

Cervical & vaginal cancer screening 17

Chemotherapy 17, 45

Chiropractic services 17

Clinical breast exam 17

Clinical laboratory tests 25

Clinical research studies 18

Colonoscopy 18–19

Colorectal cancer screening 18–19

Commode chairs 19, 27–28

Concierge care 20

Contact lenses 30, 31

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices 20

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy 20

Copayment 62

Cosmetic surgery 21

Critical access hospitals 13, 16, 36, 53, 54, 62

Crutches 16, 27–28

CT scans 25

Custodial care 21, 39

D

Deductible 11, 62

Defibrillator (implantable automatic) 22

Dehumidifiers 37

Dental services 22

Depression screening 22

Diabetes screenings 22–23

Diabetes self-management training 24
Section 1: List of topics 7

D (continued) 

Diabetes services & supplies 23–25, 27–28

Diagnostic tests 25

Dialysis (kidney) services & supplies 26–27

Dialysis machines 26–27

Doctor’s services 27

Drugs 44–45

Durable medical equipment (DME) 27–28

E

EKG screening 25, 30

Electric air cleaners 37

Emergency department services 30

Equipment 27–28

Eye exams 30, 31

Eyeglasses 31

Eye refractions 30

F

Fecal occult blood test 18–19 

Federally qualified health center services 31, 54

Flexible sigmoidoscopy 18–19

Flu shots 31

Foot care 31

G

Glaucoma tests 32

H

Health education 32

Health care provider services 27

Hearing aids 32

Hearing & balance exams 32

Hepatitis B shots 32

Hepatitis C screening test 33

HIV screening 33
8 Section 1: List of topics

H–R

H (continued) 

Home health services 33–34

Home oxygen equipment & supplies 27–28

Hospice care 34–35

Hospital beds 27–28

Hospital care 36

Humidifiers 36

I

Infusion pumps 27–28

Insulin 23

K

Kidney disease education 32, 37

L

Laboratory tests (clinical) 37

Lifetime reserve days 36, 62

M

Macular degeneration 38

Mammograms 38

Medically necessary 62

Medical nutrition therapy 32, 40

Medicare-approved amount 62

Medicare Prescription Drug Plan 63

Mental health care 38–39

MRI 25

Multi-target stool DNA test 18–19

N

Nebulizers 27–28

Nursing home care 39

Nutrition therapy services 32, 40
 Section 1: List of topics 9

O

Obesity screening & counseling 40

Observation services 41

Occupational therapy 42–43

One-time “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit 47

Orthotics 40

Osteoporosis 15, 33–34

Ostomy supplies 41

Outpatient hospital services 41

Oxygen 27–28, 42

Oxygen therapy 42

P

Pap test 17

Patient lifts 27–28

Pelvic exam 17

PET scans 25

Physical therapy 42–43

Pneumococcal shot 43

Prescription drugs 44–45

Preventive services 11, 46, 63

Preventive visits 47

Prostate cancer screenings 48

Prosthetic devices 48

Pulmonary rehabilitation program 49

R

Radiation therapy 49

Referral 63

Religious nonmedical health care institution items & services 49–50, 63

Respite care 35

Room heaters 37

Rural health clinic 50
10 Section 1: List of topics

S–Y

S

Second surgical opinions 50

Sexually transmitted infections screening & counseling 50

Shots 31, 32, 43, 51

Skilled nursing facility 51–53

Sleep apnea 20

Speech-language pathology 42–43

Suction pumps 27–28

Surgical dressing services 53

Swing bed services 53

T

Telehealth 53

Therapeutic shoes or inserts 23

Tobacco use cessation counseling 54

Traction equipment 27–28

Transplants 54–55

Transportation 13, 55

Travel 55–56

U

Urgently needed care 56

V 

Vaccinations 51

Vaginal cancer screening 17

W 

Walkers 27–28, 56

“Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit 47

Wellness programs 32

Wheelchairs 27–28, 56

X 

X-rays 41, 56

Y 

Yearly “Wellness” visit 47
11

SECTION

What Original 

Medicare covers 2 The information starting on the next page explains: 

•	 Services and supplies covered by Original Medicare 

•	 Conditions and limits for coverage 

•	 How much you pay 

As you read this booklet, keep these 2 points in mind: 

1. Unless otherwise noted, in 2015, you pay a yearly $147 

deductible for Part B-covered services and supplies before 

Medicare begins to pay its share, depending on the service or 

supply. 

2. Depending on the service or supply, actual amounts you pay may 

be higher if doctors, other health care providers, or suppliers 

don’t accept assignment. Preventive 

Services

Preventive services help 

you stay healthy. There’s 

a picture of an apple 

next to each preventive 

service that Medicare 

covers. Talk with your 

doctor about which 

preventive services are 

right for you. 

Words in blue are 

defined on pages 61–63.
12 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Doctors who don’t accept assignment may charge you more than the Medicareapproved amount for a service, but they can’t charge more than 15% over the Medicareapproved amount for non-participating suppliers. This is called the “limiting charge.” 

The limiting charge applies only to certain services and doesn’t apply to some supplies 

and durable medical equipment (DME). When getting certain supplies and DME, 

Medicare will only pay for them from suppliers enrolled in Medicare, no matter who 

submits the claim (you or your supplier).

Your doctor or other health care provider may recommend you get services more 

often than Medicare covers. Or, they may recommend services that Medicare doesn’t 

cover. If this happens, you may have to pay some or all of the costs. It’s important to ask 

questions so you understand why your doctor is recommending certain services and 

whether Medicare will pay for them.

If you disagree with a Medicare coverage or payment decision, you have the right 

to appeal. For information on how to file an appeal, see your “Medicare & You” 

handbook, or visit Medicare.gov/appeals.

A

SERVICES & SUPPLIES

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening 

Part B covers a one-time abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound for people at 

risk. You’re considered at risk if you have a family history of abdominal aortic 

aneurysms, or you’re a man 65 to 75 and have smoked at least 100 cigarettes in 

your lifetime. Medicare covers this screening if you get a referral from your doctor. 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this screening if the doctor or other qualified 

health care provider accepts assignment.

Acupuncture

Medicare doesn’t cover acupuncture. 
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 13

Alcohol misuse screening & counseling

Part B covers one alcohol misuse screening per year for adults (including 

pregnant women) who use alcohol, but don’t meet the medical criteria for alcohol 

dependency. If your primary care doctor or other primary care practitioner 

determines you’re misusing alcohol, you can get up to 4 brief face-to-face 

counseling sessions per year (if you’re competent and alert during counseling). 

A qualified primary care doctor or other primary care practitioner must provide 

the counseling in a primary care setting (like a doctor’s office). 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this screening and counseling if the qualified 

primary care doctor or other primary care practitioner accepts assignment. 

Ambulance services

Part B covers ground ambulance transportation when you need to be transported 

to a hospital, critical access hospital, or skilled nursing facility for medically 

necessary services, and transportation in any other vehicle could endanger 

your health. Medicare may pay for emergency ambulance transportation in an 

airplane or helicopter to a hospital if you need immediate and rapid ambulance 

transportation that ground transportation can’t provide. Medicare will only cover 

ambulance services (ground or air) to the nearest appropriate medical facility that’s 

able to give you the care you need. 

In some cases, Medicare may pay for limited, medically necessary, non-emergency 

ambulance transportation if you have a written order from your doctor saying that 

ambulance transportation is medically necessary. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies. All ambulance suppliers must accept assignment.

Ambulatory surgical centers 

Part B covers the facility service fees related to approved surgical procedures 

provided in an ambulatory surgical center. 

In 2015, you pay the Part B deductible and 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, 

except for certain preventive services for which you may pay nothing. You pay all 

facility service fees for procedures Medicare doesn’t cover in ambulatory surgical 

centers. 
14 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Anesthesia

Part A covers anesthesia services provided by a hospital for an inpatient. 

Part B covers anesthesia services provided by a hospital for an outpatient or by a 

freestanding ambulatory surgical center for a patient. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the anesthesia services 

provided by a doctor or certified registered nurse anesthetist, and the Part B 

deductible applies. The anesthesia service must be associated with the underlying 

medical or surgical service, and you may have to pay an additional copayment to the 

facility. 

Artificial limbs & eyes 

Part B covers artificial limbs and eyes when ordered by a doctor.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies. See “Orthotics & artificial limbs” on page 40. 

Blood 

Part A covers blood you get as a hospital inpatient. Part B covers blood you get as a 

hospital outpatient.

In 2015, you pay either the provider customary charges for the first 3 units of blood 

you get in a calendar year, or you must arrange (with limited exceptions) to have the 

blood replaced (donated by you or someone else) if the provider has to buy blood 

for you. In general, if the provider doesn’t have to pay the blood bank for the blood, 

you won’t have to pay for it or arrange for it to be replaced. 

Blood processing & handling

Hospitals generally charge for blood processing and handling for each unit of blood 

you got, whether the blood is donated or purchased. Part A covers this service for an 

inpatient. Part B covers this service for an outpatient.

In 2015, you pay a copayment for blood processing and handling services for each 

unit of blood you get as a hospital outpatient. 

B
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 15

Bone mass measurement (bone density)

Part B covers this test, which helps to see if you’re at risk for broken bones, when 

ordered by a doctor or other qualified provider if you meet one or more of these 

conditions: 

•	 You’re a woman whose doctor determines you’re estrogen deficient and at risk for 

osteoporosis, based on your medical history and other findings. 

•	 Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures. 

•	 You’re taking prednisone or steroid-type drugs or are planning to begin this 

treatment. 

•	 You’ve been diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism. 

•	 You’re being monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug therapy is working. 

The test is covered once every 24 months (more often if medically necessary) for 

people who meet one of more of the criteria above.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this test if the doctor or other qualified health care 

provider accepts assignment. 

Braces (arm, leg, back, & neck) 

Part B covers medically necessary arm, leg, back, and neck braces.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies. 

Breast prostheses

Part B covers external breast prostheses (including a post-surgical bra) after a 

mastectomy. Part A covers surgically implanted breast prostheses after a mastectomy 

if the surgery takes place in an inpatient setting, and Part B covers the surgery if it 

takes place in an outpatient setting.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services 

and the external breast prostheses, and the Part B deductible applies. For surgeries 

to implant breast prostheses in a hospital inpatient setting covered under Part A, see 

“Hospital care (inpatient)” on page 36. For surgeries to implant breast prostheses in 

a hospital outpatient setting covered under Part B, see “Outpatient hospital services” 

on page 41. 

Breast reconstruction 

See “Breast prostheses” above.
16 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Canes/crutches

Part B covers canes and crutches. Medicare doesn’t cover white canes for the blind. 

For more information, see “Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies.

Cardiac rehabilitation program 

Part B covers comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs that include exercise, 

education, and counseling if your doctor referred you, and you had any of these: 

•	 A heart attack in the last 12 months 

•	 Coronary artery bypass surgery 

•	 Current stable angina pectoris (chest pain) 

•	 A heart valve repair or replacement 

•	 A coronary angioplasty (a medical procedure used to open a blocked artery) or 

coronary stenting (a procedure used to keep an artery open) 

•	 A heart or heart-lung transplant

•	 Stable chronic heart failure

Part B also covers intensive cardiac rehabilitation (ICR) programs that, like regular 

cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs, include exercise, education, and counseling for 

patients whose doctor referred them and who had any of the conditions listed above, 

with the exception of stable chronic heart failure, which applies only to CR programs. 

ICR programs are typically more rigorous or more intense than CR programs. These 

programs may be provided in a hospital outpatient setting (including a critical access 

hospital) or in a doctor’s office. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount if you get the services in 

a doctor’s office. In a hospital outpatient setting, you pay the hospital a copayment. 

The Part B deductible applies.

Cardiovascular disease (behavior therapy)

Medicare covers one visit per year with your primary care doctor in a primary 

care doctor’s office or primary care clinic to help lower your risk for cardiovascular 

disease. During this visit, your doctor may discuss aspirin use (if appropriate), check 

your blood pressure, and give you tips to make sure you’re eating well.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING if the doctor or other qualified health care provider 

accepts assignment.

C
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 17

Cardiovascular disease screenings

Part B covers screening blood tests for cholesterol, lipid, and triglyceride levels 

every 5 years. These screening tests help detect conditions that may lead to a heart 

attack or stroke.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the tests.

Cervical & vaginal cancer screenings

Part B covers Pap tests and pelvic exams to check for cervical and vaginal cancers. 

As part of the exam, Medicare also covers a clinical breast exam to check for breast 

cancer. Medicare covers these screening tests once every 24 months. Medicare 

covers these screening tests once every 12 months if you’re at high risk for cervical 

or vaginal cancer or if you’re of child-bearing age and had an abnormal Pap test in 

the past 36 months.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the lab Pap test. You also pay nothing for the 

Pap test specimen collection and pelvic and breast exams if the doctor accepts 

assignment.

Chemotherapy 

Part A covers chemotherapy for cancer patients who are hospital inpatients. 

Part B covers chemotherapy for hospital outpatients or patients in a doctor’s office 

or freestanding clinic.

In 2015, you pay a copayment for chemotherapy covered under Part B in a hospital 

outpatient setting. For chemotherapy given in a doctor’s office or freestanding 

clinic, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies. For chemotherapy in the hospital inpatient setting covered under Part A, 

see “Hospital care (inpatient)” on page 36.

Chiropractic services

Part B covers manipulation of the spine if medically necessary to correct a 

subluxation (when one or more of the bones of your spine move out of position) 

when provided by a chiropractor or other qualified provider. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies. You pay all costs for any other services or tests ordered by a chiropractor 

(including X-rays and massage therapy). 
18 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Clinical research studies

Clinical research studies test different types of medical care, like how well a cancer 

drug works. These studies help doctors and researchers see if a new treatment works 

and if it’s safe. Part A and/or Part B cover some costs, like office visits and tests, in 

certain qualifying clinical research studies. 

In 2015, you may have to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, depending 

on the treatment you get. The Part B deductible may apply.

Colorectal cancer screening

Part B covers several types of colorectal cancer screening tests to help find 

precancerous growths or find cancer early, when treatment is most effective. 

All people 50 or older with Medicare are covered. However, there’s no minimum age 

for having a screening colonoscopy. One or more of these tests may be covered: 

Screening barium enema: When this test is used instead of a flexible 

sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, Medicare covers the test once every 48 months 

for people 50 or older and once every 24 months for people at high risk for 

colorectal cancer. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s 

services. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay a copayment. 

Screening colonoscopy: Medicare covers this test once every 24 months if 

you’re at high risk for colorectal cancer. If you aren’t at high risk for colorectal 

cancer, Medicare covers the test once every 120 months, or 48 months after a 

previous flexible sigmoidoscopy. There’s no minimum age. 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this test if the doctor accepts assignment.

However, if a screening colonoscopy results in the biopsy or removal of a 

lesion or growth during the same visit, the procedure is considered diagnostic 

and you may have to pay coinsurance and/or a copayment, but the Part B 

deductible doesn’t apply.

Screening fecal occult blood test: Medicare covers this lab test once every 

12 months for people 50 or older. This screening test is covered if you get a 

referral from your doctor, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical 

nurse specialist.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this test. 

 
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 19

Colorectal cancer screening (continued)

Multi-target stool DNA test : (like CologuardTM): Medicare covers this 

multi-target stool DNA lab test once every 3 years for people who meet all of 

these conditions:

•	 They’re between ages 50–85.

•	 They show no symptoms of colorectal disease including, but not limited to, 

lower gastrointestinal pain, blood in stool, positive guaiac fecal occult blood 

test or fecal immunochemical test.

•	 They’re at average risk for developing colorectal cancer, meaning:

– They have no personal history of adenomatous polyps, colorectal cancer, 

inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative 

colitis.

– They have no family history of colorectal cancers or adenomatous polyps, 

familial adenomatous polyposis, or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal 

cancer.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this test.

Screening flexible sigmoidoscopy: Medicare covers this test once every 48 

months for most people 50 or older. If you aren’t at high risk, Medicare covers 

this test 120 months after a previous screening colonoscopy.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING if the doctor or other qualified health care provider 

accepts assignment.

If a screening flexible sigmoidoscopy results in the biopsy or removal of a lesion 

or growth during the same visit, the procedure is considered diagnostic and you 

may have to pay coinsurance and/or a copayment, but the Part B deductible

doesn’t apply. 

Commode chairs

Part B covers commode chairs that your doctor orders for use in your home if you’re 

confined to your bedroom. If you live in certain areas of the country, you may have to 

use specific suppliers for Medicare to pay for a commode chair. For more information, 

see “Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies.

Contact lenses

See “Eyeglasses/contact lenses” on page 31.
20 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices 

Medicare doesn’t cover CGM devices. Since the CGM equipment isn’t covered, 

Medicare also doesn’t cover CGM supplies.

In 2015, you pay 100% of the costs for CGM devices and supplies.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy 

Medicare covers a 3-month trial of CPAP therapy if you’ve been diagnosed with 

obstructive sleep apnea.

Medicare may cover it longer if you meet in person with your doctor, and your doctor 

documents in your medical record that the CPAP therapy is helping you. 

Note: If you had a CPAP machine before you got Medicare, Medicare may cover 

rental or a replacement CPAP machine and/or CPAP accessories if you meet certain 

requirements.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for rental of the machine and 

purchase of related supplies (like masks and tubing), and the Part B deductible applies. 

If you live in certain areas of the country, you may have to use specific suppliers 

for Medicare to pay for a CPAP machine and/or accessories. See “Durable medical 

equipment” on pages 27–28.

Medicare pays the supplier to rent the machine for 13 months if you’ve been using it 

without interruption. After you’ve rented the machine for 13 months, you own it.

Concierge care 

Concierge care is when a doctor or group of doctors charges you a membership fee 

before they’ll see you or accept you into their practice. When you pay this fee, you may 

get some services or amenities that Medicare doesn’t cover. Medicare doesn’t cover 

membership fees for concierge care (also called concierge medicine, retainer-based 

medicine, boutique medicine, platinum practice, or direct care). 

Doctors who provide concierge care must still follow all Medicare rules:

•	 Doctors who accept assignment can’t charge you extra for Medicare-covered 

services. This means the membership fee can’t include additional charges for items 

or services that Medicare covers unless your doctor thinks Medicare probably (or 

certainly) won’t pay for the item or service because it’s not medically necessary or 

reasonable. In this situation, your doctor must give you a written notice called an 

“Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage” (ABN).
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 21

Concierge care (continued) 

•	 Doctors who don’t accept assignment can charge you more than the Medicareapproved amount for Medicare-covered services, but there’s a 15% limit called 

the “limiting charge.”

•	 All Medicare doctors (regardless of whether or not they accept assignment) can 

charge you for items and services that Medicare doesn’t cover.

In 2015, you pay 100% of the membership fee for concierge care.

Cosmetic surgery 

Medicare generally doesn’t cover cosmetic surgery unless it’s needed because of 

accidental injury or to improve the function of a malformed body part. Medicare 

covers breast reconstruction if you had a mastectomy because of breast cancer. 

See “Breast prosthesis” on page 15.

Custodial care (help with activities of daily living, like bathing, 

dressing, using the bathroom, and eating) 

Medicare doesn’t cover custodial care when it’s the only kind of care you need. 

Care is considered custodial when it helps you with activities of daily living 

or personal needs and could be done safely and reasonably by people without 

professional skills or training.
22 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Defibrillator (implantable automatic)

Part A or Part B covers implantable defibrillators for certain people diagnosed with 

heart failure, depending on whether the surgery takes place in a hospital inpatient 

or outpatient setting. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services. 

If covered by Part B, the Part B deductible applies. If you get the device as a hospital 

outpatient, you also pay the hospital a copayment, but no more than the Part A 

hospital stay deductible. For surgeries to implant defibrillators in the hospital 

inpatient setting covered under Part A, see “Hospital care (inpatient)” on page 36.

Dental services

Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care, dental procedures, or supplies, like 

cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, dentures, dental plates, or other dental devices. 

Part A will pay for certain dental services that you get when you’re in a hospital. 

Part A can pay for hospital stays if you need to have emergency or complicated 

dental procedures, even though the dental care isn’t covered.

Depression screening 

Part B covers one depression screening per year. The screening must be done in a 

primary care setting (like a doctor’s office) that can provide follow-up treatment 

and/or referrals, if needed.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this screening if the doctor accepts assignment.

Diabetes screenings

Part B covers screenings to check for diabetes. These lab tests are covered if you have 

any of these risk factors: 

•	 High blood pressure (hypertension) 

•	 History of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels (dyslipidemia) 

•	 Obesity 

•	 A history of high blood sugar (glucose) 

Medicare also covers these tests if 2 or more of these apply to you: 

•	 Age 65 or older 

•	 Overweight 

•	 Family history of diabetes (parents, brothers, sisters)

•	 A history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or delivery of a baby 

weighing more than 9 pounds 

D
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 23

Diabetes screenings (continued)

You may be eligible for up to 2 diabetes screenings each year.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for these tests.

Diabetes services & supplies 

Part B covers some diabetes supplies, including: 

•	 Blood sugar (glucose) test strips 

•	 Blood glucose testing monitors 

•	 Lancet devices and lancets 

•	 Glucose control solutions for checking test strip and monitor accuracy 

There may be limits on how much or how often you get these supplies. For more 

information, see “Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies.

Insulin: Part B doesn’t cover insulin (unless use of an insulin pump is medically 

necessary), insulin pens, syringes, needles, alcohol swabs, or gauze. Medicare 

Part D (Medicare prescription drug coverage) may cover insulin and certain 

medical supplies used to inject insulin, like syringes, gauze, and alcohol swabs. 

If you use an external insulin pump, insulin and the pump may be covered 

as durable medical equipment. If you live in certain areas of the country, you 

may have to use specific suppliers for Medicare to pay for an insulin pump. 

See “Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28.

In 2015, you pay 100% for insulin (unless used with an insulin pump, then you 

pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies). 

You pay 100% for syringes and needles, unless you have Part D.

Therapeutic shoes or inserts: Part B covers therapeutic shoes or inserts for 

people with diabetes who have severe diabetic foot disease. The doctor who 

treats your diabetes must certify your need for therapeutic shoes or inserts. 

The shoes or inserts must be prescribed by a podiatrist (foot doctor) or other 

qualified doctor and provided by a podiatrist, orthotist, prosthetist, or pedorthist. 

Medicare helps pay for one pair of therapeutic shoes and inserts per calendar 

year. Shoe modifications may be substituted for inserts. Medicare covers the 

fitting of the shoes or inserts for the shoes.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B 

deductible applies.
24 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Diabetes services & supplies (continued)

If you get your diabetes supplies delivered to your home, you need to use a 

Medicare contract supplier for Medicare to pay for your diabetic testing supplies as 

part of the national mail-order program for diabetes supplies. If you don’t want your 

diabetic testing supplies delivered to your home, you can go to any local store that’s 

enrolled with Medicare and buy them there. Medicare’s allowed payment amount 

will be the same for diabetic testing supplies you buy at the store or have delivered 

to your home. National mail-order contract suppliers can’t charge you more than 

any unmet deductible and 20% coinsurance. Local stores can’t charge more than 

any unmet deductible and 20% coinsurance if they accept assignment, which means 

they accept the Medicare-approved amount as payment in full. Local stores that 

don’t accept Medicare assignment may charge you more than 20% coinsurance and 

any unmet deductible. If you get your supplies from a local store, check with the 

store to find out what your payment will be.

Medicare also covers these diabetes services:

Diabetes self-management training: Part B covers diabetes outpatient 

self-management training to teach you to cope with and manage your diabetes. 

It includes tips for eating healthy, being active, monitoring blood sugar, taking 

medication, and reducing risks. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, 

Medicare may cover up to 10 hours of initial diabetes self-management 

training. You may also qualify for up to 2 hours of follow-up training each year 

if these conditions apply: 

•	It’s provided in a group of 2 to 20 people.*

•	It lasts for at least 30 minutes. 

•	It takes place in a calendar year after the year you got your initial training. 

•	Your doctor or a qualified provider ordered it as part of your plan of care. 

* Some exceptions apply if group sessions aren’t available or if your doctor 

or qualified provider says you have special needs that prevent you from 

participating in group training.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B 

deductible applies.
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 25

Diabetes services & supplies (continued)

Medicare also covers these diabetes services:

Yearly eye exam: Part B covers a yearly eye exam for diabetic retinopathy 

by an eye doctor who’s legally allowed to do the test in your state. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s 

services, and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, 

you pay a copayment. 

Foot exam: Part B covers a foot exam every 6 months for people with 

diabetic peripheral neuropathy and loss of protective sensations, as long as 

you haven’t seen a foot care professional for another reason between visits. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s 

services, and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, 

you pay a copayment.

Glaucoma tests: See page 32. 

Nutrition therapy services (medical): See page 40. 

Diagnostic tests, X-rays, & clinical laboratory tests

Part B covers diagnostic non-laboratory tests, like CT scans, MRIs, EKGs, X-rays, 

and PET scans, when your doctor or other health care provider orders them as 

part of treating a medical problem. Medicare also covers medically necessary

clinical diagnostic laboratory tests ordered by your treating doctor or practitioner. 

These tests are done to help your doctor diagnose or rule out a suspected illness 

or condition. Medicare also covers some preventive tests and screenings to 

help prevent, find, or manage a medical problem. For more information, see 

“Preventive services” on page 46.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered diagnostic 

non-laboratory tests and X-rays done in a doctor’s office or in an independent 

testing facility, and the Part B deductible applies. You pay a copayment for 

diagnostic non-laboratory tests and X-rays done in the hospital outpatient setting. 

You generally pay nothing for Medicare-covered diagnostic clinical laboratory 

tests. 
26 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Dialysis (kidney) services & supplies 

Medicare covers many kidney dialysis services and supplies for people with EndStage Renal Disease (ESRD) (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney 

transplant). All kidney dialysis services and supplies used to provide outpatient 

maintenance dialysis treatment are provided (directly or under arrangement) and 

billed by your dialysis facility. 

Inpatient dialysis treatments: Part A covers dialysis if you’re admitted to the 

hospital for special care. See “Hospital care (inpatient)” on page 36.

Outpatient maintenance dialysis treatments: Part B covers a variety of 

dialysis services if you get routine maintenance dialysis from a Medicarecertified dialysis facility. For example, Part B covers ESRD-related laboratory 

tests and medications (like heparin, topical anesthetics, and erythropoiesisstimulating agents used to treat anemia related to your ESRD), but excludes 

ESRD-related medications that only have an oral form of administration 

(drugs taken by mouth that only come in capsule, tablet, or liquid forms), 

which are covered only under Part D.

Outpatient maintenance dialysis treatments include the cost of dialysis drugs 

and biologicals (except ESRD-related medications that only have an oral form 

of administration, which are covered only under Part D). In 2015, you pay 

20% of the Medicare-approved amount for each dialysis treatment given in a 

dialysis facility or at home, and the Part B deductible applies. 

Training for home dialysis: Part B covers training if you’re a candidate for 

home dialysis. Part B covers training conducted during the course of your 

regular treatments for you and the person helping you with your home dialysis 

treatments. The training must be conducted by a dialysis facility that has been 

certified by Medicare to provide home dialysis training. Only dialysis facilities 

can bill Medicare (directly or under arrangement) for providing home dialysis 

training.

The cost of home training is included as part of the outpatient maintenance 

dialysis treatment. In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for 

the outpatient maintenance dialysis treatment, and the Part B deductible applies. 

Home dialysis equipment, supplies, & support services: Part B covers 

all kidney dialysis equipment and supplies including alcohol, wipes, dialysis 

machines, sterile drapes, rubber gloves, and scissors. Part B also covers home 

dialysis support services provided by your dialysis facility. Home dialysis 

support services can include periodic visits by trained dialysis workers to check 

on your home dialysis, to help in dialysis emergencies when needed, and to 

check your dialysis equipment and hemodialysis water supply
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 27

Dialysis (kidney) services & supplies (continued)

The cost of home dialysis equipment, supplies, and support services are 

included as part of the outpatient maintenance dialysis treatment. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the outpatient 

maintenance dialysis treatment, and the Part B deductible applies. Only 

dialysis facilities can bill Medicare for providing (directly or under 

arrangement) home dialysis support services. 

Doctor & other health care provider services 

Part B covers medically necessary services or covered preventive services you get 

from your doctor in an office setting, a hospital, a skilled nursing facility, your 

home, or other settings. A doctor can be a medical doctor (MD), a doctor of 

osteopathy (DO), or, in some cases, a dentist, podiatrist (foot doctor), optometrist 

(eye doctor), or chiropractor. Medicare also covers services provided by other 

health care providers, like physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse 

specialists, clinical social workers, physical and occupational therapists, speech 

language pathologists, and clinical psychologists. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, except for certain 

preventive services (for which you may pay nothing if the doctor or other provider 

accepts assignment). The Part B deductible applies. See “Preventive services” on 

page 46.

Drugs

See “Prescription drugs (outpatient)” on pages 44–45.

Durable medical equipment (DME)

Part B covers durable medical equipment (DME) that your doctor prescribes for use 

in your home. Only your doctor can prescribe medical equipment for you. DME is 

defined as equipment that meets these criteria: 

•	 Durable (long lasting)

•	 Used for a medical reason

•	 Not usually useful to someone who isn’t sick or injured

•	 Used in your home

In certain circumstances, the DME that Medicare covers includes, but isn’t limited to: 

•	 Air-fluidized beds 

•	 Blood sugar monitors and diabetic testing strips
28 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Durable medical equipment (DME) (continued)

•	 Canes (however, white canes for the blind aren’t covered) 

•	 Commode chairs

•	 Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy 

•	 Crutches 

•	 Home oxygen equipment and supplies 

•	 Hospital beds 

•	 Infusion pumps (and some medicines used in infusion pumps if considered 

reasonable and necessary) 

•	 Nebulizers (and some medicines used in nebulizers if considered reasonable and 

necessary) 

•	 Patient lifts (to lift patient from bed or wheelchair by hydraulic operation) 

•	 Suction pumps 

•	 Traction equipment 

•	 Walkers 

•	 Wheelchairs 

Make sure your doctors and DME suppliers are enrolled in Medicare. Doctors and 

suppliers have to meet strict standards to enroll and stay enrolled in Medicare. 

If your doctors or suppliers aren’t enrolled, Medicare won’t pay the claims submitted 

by them. It’s also important to ask your suppliers if they participate in Medicare 

before you get DME. If suppliers are participating suppliers, they must accept 

assignment (that is, they’re limited to charging you only coinsurance and the Part B 

deductible on the Medicare-approved amount). If suppliers are enrolled in Medicare 

but aren’t “participating,” they may choose not to accept assignment. 

If suppliers don’t accept assignment, there’s no limit on the amount they can charge 

you). To find suppliers who accept assignment, visit Medicare.gov/supplier or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for DME, and the Part B 

deductible applies.

Note: Medicare pays for different kinds of DME in different ways: some equipment 

is rented, other equipment is purchased, and some equipment may be either rented 

or bought. If a DME supplier doesn’t accept assignment, Medicare doesn’t limit how 

much the supplier can charge you. You also may have to pay the entire bill (your 

share and Medicare’s share) at the time you get the DME and then submit a claim for 

reimbursement.
29

Durable medical equipment (DME) (continued)

Medicare has a program called the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program, which 

helps save you and Medicare money, and ensures that you have access to quality 

medical equipment, supplies, and services from suppliers you can trust. Under this 

program, the supplier must accept assignment of the claim and must accept the 

Medicare allowed payment amount as payment in full. This program also helps 

limit fraud and abuse in the Medicare Program. To get certain equipment and 

supplies in some areas of the country, you must use specific suppliers called 

“contract suppliers,” or Medicare won’t pay for the item and you likely will pay 

full price.

This program is in effect for certain items in certain areas of the country. 

To find out if your ZIP code is affected by this program along with a list of 

contract suppliers, visit Medicare.gov/supplier. If your ZIP code is in a competitive 

bidding area, the items included in the program are marked with an orange star. 

You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 

1-877-486-2048. Medicare also has a nationwide program for mail-order diabetic 

testing supplies for everyone who gets their diabetic testing supplies delivered 

to their home. See pages 24–25 for more information. If a supplier plans to give 

you an item that won’t be covered because the supplier isn’t a contract supplier, it 

must give you an “Advanced Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage” (ABN) before 

furnishing the item to inform you of your financial responsibility.

Section 2: What Original Medicare covers
30 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

EKG (electrocardiogram) screening

Part B covers a one-time screening EKG if you get a referral from your doctor 

or other health care provider as part of your one-time “Welcome to Medicare” 

preventive visit. See “Preventive visits” on page 47. EKGs are also covered as 

diagnostic tests. See page 25.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies. If you have the test at a hospital or a hospital-owned clinic, you also pay the 

hospital a copayment.

Emergency department services 

Part B covers emergency department services. Generally, emergency department 

services are provided when you have an injury, a sudden illness, or an illness that 

quickly gets much worse. Emergency services may be covered in foreign countries 

only in rare circumstances. For more information, see “Travel” on pages 55–56.

In 2015, you pay a copayment for each emergency department visit and a 

copayment for each hospital service. You also pay 20% of the Medicare-approved 

amount for the doctor’s services, and the Part B deductible applies. If you’re 

admitted to the same hospital for a related condition within 3 days of your 

emergency department visit, you don’t pay the copayment because your visit is 

considered to be part of your inpatient stay. 

Equipment

See “Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28.

Eye exams

Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams (sometimes called “eye refractions”) for 

eyeglasses or contact lenses. Medicare covers some preventive and diagnostic eye exams:

•	 See “Yearly eye exam” under “Diabetes services & supplies” on pages 23–25. 

•	 See “Glaucoma tests” on page 32.

•	 See “Macular degeneration” on page 38.

E
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 31

Eyeglasses/contact lenses

Generally, Medicare doesn’t cover eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, following 

cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens, Part B helps pay for corrective 

lenses (one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses).

In 2015, you pay 100% for non-covered services, including most eyeglasses or contact 

lenses. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for one pair of eyeglasses or 

one set of contact lenses after each cataract surgery with an intraocular lens, and the 

Part B deductible applies. You pay any additional costs for upgraded frames. Medicare 

will only pay for contact lenses or eyeglasses from a supplier enrolled in Medicare, no 

matter who submits the claim (you or your supplier).

Federally qualified health center services 

Part B covers a broad range of outpatient primary care and preventive services in 

federally qualified health centers. 

In 2015, you generally pay 20% of the charges. You pay nothing for most preventive 

services.

Flu shots

Part B normally covers one flu shot per flu season.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for a flu shot if the doctor or other qualified health 

care provider accepts assignment for giving the shot.

Foot care

Part B covers podiatrist (foot doctor) services for medically necessary treatment 

of foot injuries or diseases (like hammer toe, bunion deformities, and heel spurs). 

See “Therapeutic shoes” (on page 23) and “Foot exam” under “Diabetes services & 

supplies” (on page 25). Part B generally doesn’t cover routine foot care (like the cutting 

or removal of corns and calluses, the trimming, cutting, and clipping of nails, or 

hygienic or other preventive maintenance, including cleaning and soaking the feet).

In 2015, you pay 100% for routine foot care, in most cases. You pay 20% of the 

Medicare-approved amount for medically necessary treatment provided by a doctor, 

and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay a 

copayment for medically necessary treatment.

F
32 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Glaucoma tests

Part B covers a glaucoma test once every 12 months for people at high risk for 

glaucoma. You’re at high risk if you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, are 

African American and 50 or older, or are Hispanic American and 65 or older. The 

screening must be done or supervised by an eye doctor who’s legally allowed to do this 

test in your state.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay a copayment. 

Health education/wellness programs

Medicare generally doesn’t cover health education and wellness programs. However, 

Medicare does cover medical nutrition therapy for people with diabetes or kidney 

disease, diabetes self-management training for people with diabetes (see page 24), 

kidney disease education services (see page 37), counseling to stop smoking and 

tobacco use (see page 54), alcohol misuse screenings and counseling (see page 13), 

depression screenings (see page 22), a one-time “Welcome to Medicare” preventive 

visit (see page 47), and yearly “Wellness” visits (see page 47).

Hearing & balance exams/hearing aids 

Part B covers diagnostic hearing and balance exams if your doctor or other health 

care provider orders these tests to see if you need medical treatment. Medicare doesn’t 

cover routine hearing exams, hearing aids, or exams for fitting hearing aids.

In 2015, you pay 100% for routine exams and hearing aids. You also pay 20% of 

the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services for covered exams, and the 

Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay the hospital a 

copayment.

Hepatitis B shots

Part B covers these shots for people at high or medium risk for Hepatitis B. Your risk 

for Hepatitis B increases if you have hemophilia, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) 

(permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant), diabetes, or 

certain conditions that lower your resistance to infection. Other factors may also 

increase your risk for Hepatitis B. Check with your doctor to see if you’re at high or 

medium risk for Hepatitis B.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the shot if the doctor or other qualified health care 

provider accepts assignment. 

G

H
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 33

Hepatitis C screening test

Medicare covers one Hepatitis C screening test for people who meet one of these conditions:

•	 You’re at high risk because you have a current or past history of illicit injection drug use.

•	 You had a blood transfusion before 1992.

•	 You were born between 1945–1965.

Medicare also covers yearly repeat screenings for certain people at high risk.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the screening test if the doctor or other qualified health 

care provider accepts assignment. Medicare will only cover Hepatitis C screening tests if 

they’re ordered by a primary care doctor or practitioner.

HIV screening

Part B covers HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) screenings for people at increased 

risk for the virus, people who ask for the test, or pregnant women. Medicare covers this test 

once every 12 months or up to 3 times during a pregnancy.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the test if the doctor or other qualified health care 

provider accepts assignment.

Home health services 

You can use your home health benefits under Part A and/or Part B if you meet all of these 

conditions: 

•	 You must be under the care of a doctor, and you must be getting services under a plan 

of care established and reviewed regularly by a doctor.

•	 You must need, and a doctor must certify that you need, one or more of these: 

– Intermittent skilled nursing care (other than just drawing blood)

– Physical therapy 

– Speech-language pathology services 

– Continued occupational therapy

•	 The home health agency caring for you must be Medicare-certified. 

•	 You must be homebound, and a doctor must certify that you’re homebound. To be 

homebound means: 

– You have trouble leaving your home without help (like using a cane, 

wheelchair, walker, or crutches; special transportation; or help from another 

person) because of an illness or injury OR

– Leaving your home isn’t recommended because of your condition, AND you’re 

normally unable to leave your home because it’s a major effort
34 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Home health services (continued)

You may leave home for medical treatment or short, infrequent absences for nonmedical reasons, like attending religious services. You can still get home health care if 

you attend adult day care.

Note: Home health services may also include medical social services, part-time or 

intermittent home health aide services, medical supplies for use at home, durable 

medical equipment (see pages 27–28), or injectable osteoporosis drugs. 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for all covered home health visits. You pay 20% of the 

Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies, for Medicare-covered 

medical equipment.

Osteoporosis drugs for women 

Part A and Part B help pay for an injectable drug for osteoporosis in women 

who are eligible for Part B, meet the criteria for Medicare home health services, 

and have a bone fracture that a doctor certifies is related to post-menopausal 

osteoporosis. You must also be certified by a doctor as unable to learn to give 

yourself the drug by injection, and that family members and/or caregivers are 

unable or unwilling to give you the drug by injection. Medicare covers visits by a 

home health nurse to inject the drug.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the cost of the 

drug, and the Part B deductible applies. You pay nothing for the home health 

nurse visit to inject the drug. 

Hospice care

If you have Part A and meet all of these conditions, you can get hospice care: 

•	 Your hospice doctor and your regular doctor (if you have one) certify that you’re 

terminally ill (with a life expectancy of 6 months or less).

•	 You accept palliative care (for comfort) instead of care to cure your illness.

•	 You sign a statement choosing hospice care instead of other Medicare-covered 

benefits to treat your terminal illness and related conditions.

Note: Only your hospice doctor and your regular doctor (if you have one) - not a nurse 

practitioner that you’ve chosen to serve as your attending medical professional - can 

certify that you’re terminally ill and have a life expectancy of 6 months or less. 

Important: Original Medicare will still pay for covered benefits for any health 

problems that aren’t part of your terminal illness and related conditions, but this is 

unusual. Once you choose hospice care, your hospice benefit will generally cover 

everything you need. 
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 35

Hospice care (continued)

Hospice care is usually given in your home but may also be covered in a hospice 

inpatient facility. Depending on your terminal illness and related conditions, the plan 

of care your hospice team creates can include any or all of these services: 

•	 Doctor services

•	 Nursing care

•	 Medical equipment (like wheelchairs or walkers)

•	 Medical supplies (like bandages or catheters)

•	 Prescription drugs for symptom control or pain relief

•	 Hospice aide and homemaker services

•	 Physical and occupational therapy

•	 Speech-language pathology services

•	 Social work services

•	 Dietary counseling

•	 Grief and loss counseling for you and your family

•	 Short-term inpatient care (for pain and symptom management)

•	 Short-term respite care*

•	 Any other Medicare-covered services needed to manage your pain and other 

symptoms related to your terminal illness and related conditions, as recommended 

by your hospice team

*If your usual caregiver (like a family member) needs a rest, you can get inpatient respite 

care in a Medicare-approved facility (like a hospice inpatient facility, hospital, or nursing 

home). Your hospice provider will arrange this for you. You can stay up to 5 days each 

time you get respite care. You can get respite care more than once, but it can only be 

provided on an occasional basis. 

In 2015, you generally pay NOTHING for hospice care. You may need to pay a 

copayment of no more than $5 for each prescription drug and other similar product 

for pain relief and symptom control when you’re receiving care at home. You may 

need to pay 5% of the Medicare-approved amount for inpatient respite care. Your cost 

for respite care may range from $5-$12 per day. Medicare doesn’t cover room and 

board when you get hospice care in your home or another facility where you live (like 

a nursing home). If your attending doctor isn’t employed by the hospice, you pay your 

usual Part B deductible and coinsurance for his or her services. 

Medicare covers the costs of your room and board if the hospice staff determines that 

your symptoms must be managed in an inpatient setting, like a hospice facility, hospital, 

or nursing home.
36 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Hospital bed 

If you live in certain areas of the country, you may have to use specific suppliers for 

Medicare to pay for a hospital bed used at home. See “Durable medical equipment” 

on pages 27–28.

Hospital care (inpatient) 

Part A covers inpatient hospital care when all of these are true: 

•	 A doctor makes an official order which says you need inpatient hospital care to 

treat your illness or injury.

•	 You need the kind of care that can be given only in a hospital. 

•	 The hospital accepts Medicare. 

•	 The Utilization Review Committee of the hospital approves your stay while you’re 

in the hospital. 

Medicare-covered hospital services include semi-private rooms, meals, general 

nursing, drugs as part of your inpatient treatment, and other hospital services and 

supplies. This includes care you get in acute care hospitals, critical access hospitals, 

inpatient rehabilitation facilities, long-term care hospitals, inpatient care as part of 

a qualifying clinical research study, and mental health care. See pages 38–39. This 

doesn’t include private-duty nursing, a television or phone in your room (if there’s a 

separate charge for these items), or personal care items, like razors or slipper socks. 

It also doesn’t include a private room, unless medically necessary.

If you have Part B, it covers the doctors’ services you get while you’re in a hospital. 

In 2015, you pay the following for each benefit period: 

•	 Days 1-60: $1,260 deductible. 

•	 Days 61-90: $315 coinsurance each day. 

•	 Days 91 and beyond: $630 coinsurance per each “lifetime reserve day” after day 

90 for each benefit period (up to 60 days over your lifetime). 

•	 Each day after the lifetime reserve days: all costs. 

•	 Inpatient mental health care in a psychiatric hospital is limited to 190 days in a 

lifetime. 

For “Outpatient hospital services,” see page 41.

Note: In some cases, the hospital or a Medicare contractor may determine you 

should’ve gotten services in an outpatient setting. The hospital may submit a Part B 

claim for your services, and the amount you owe may change. You’ll pay your part 

for Part B services, but you may be able to get a refund for any money you paid for 

Part A services.
37

K

Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Humidifiers 

Generally, Medicare doesn’t cover humidifiers or other similar items, like room 

heaters, dehumidifiers, or electric air cleaners. 

However, Medicare covers oxygen humidifiers used with certain covered durable 

medical equipment (DME) when medically necessary. 

In 2015, you pay 100% for most humidifiers or other similar items. You won’t have 

to pay a separate amount for an oxygen humidifier. The cost of a humidifier will be 

included in the monthly fee for your oxygen equipment. 

Kidney (dialysis)

See “Dialysis (kidney) services & supplies” on pages 26–27.

Kidney disease education 

Medicare covers up to 6 sessions of kidney disease education services if you have Stage 

IV chronic kidney disease that will require dialysis or a kidney transplant, if your doctor 

or other health care provider refers you for the service, and when the service is given by 

a doctor, certain qualified non-doctor provider, or certain rural provider. Kidney disease 

education teaches you how to take the best possible care of your kidneys and gives you 

information you need to make informed decisions about your care. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount per session if you get 

the service from a doctor or other qualified health care provider, and the Part B 

deductible applies. 

Laboratory tests (clinical)

Part B covers medically necessary clinical diagnostic laboratory tests ordered by your 

treating doctor or practitioner. Laboratory tests include certain blood tests, urinalysis, 

tests on tissue specimens, and some screening tests. They must be provided by a 

laboratory that meets Medicare requirements. For more information, see “Diagnostic 

tests, X-rays, & clinical laboratory tests” on page 25.

In 2015, you generally pay NOTHING for Medicare-covered clinical diagnostic 

laboratory tests. 

L
38 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Macular degeneration 

Part B covers certain diagnostic tests and treatment of diseases and conditions of 

the eye for some patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including 

treatment with certain injected drugs. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the drug and the 

doctor’s services, and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, 

you pay a copayment. 

Mammograms

Part B covers a screening mammogram once every 12 months (11 full months must 

have passed since the last screening) for women with Medicare who are 40 or older. 

You can also get one baseline mammogram between 35–39.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the screening test if the doctor or other qualified 

health care provider accepts assignment. 

Part B also covers diagnostic mammograms when medically necessary. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies.

Medical nutrition therapy services 

See “Nutrition therapy services (medical)” on page 40. 

Mental health care

Part A and Part B cover mental health services to help with conditions like depression 

and anxiety in a variety of settings.

Inpatient mental health care: Part A covers mental health care services you get in 

a hospital that require you to be admitted as an inpatient. You can get these services 

either in a general hospital or a psychiatric hospital that only cares for people with 

mental health conditions. Medicare helps pay for inpatient mental health services in 

the same way it pays for all other inpatient hospital care.

Note: If you’re in a freestanding psychiatric hospital, Medicare only helps pay for a 

total of 190 days of inpatient care during your lifetime. 

M
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 39

Mental health care (continued)

Outpatient mental health care: Part B covers mental health services on an 

outpatient basis when provided by a doctor, clinical psychologist, clinical social 

worker, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse-midwife, or 

physician assistant in a doctor or other health care provider’s office or hospital 

outpatient department.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for visits to a doctor 

or other health care provider. The Part B deductible applies. If you get treatment 

services in a hospital outpatient clinic or hospital outpatient department, you may 

have to pay an additional copayment or coinsurance amount to the hospital. This 

amount will vary depending on the service provided, but will be between 20-40% 

of the Medicare-approved amount.

Partial hospitalization services: Part B covers partial hospitalization services. 

Partial hospitalization services are provided under a partial hospitalization 

program, furnished by a hospital to its outpatients or by a community mental 

health center. A partial hospitalization program is a structured program of 

outpatient psychiatric services provided to patients as an alternative to inpatient 

psychiatric care. It’s more intense than the care you get in your doctor’s or 

therapist’s office. To be eligible for partial hospitalization services, a doctor must 

certify that you would otherwise need inpatient treatment. 

In 2015, you pay a percentage of the Medicare-approved amount for each service 

you get from a doctor or certain other mental health qualified professionals 

(as described above in “Outpatient mental health care”) if your health care 

professional accepts assignment. You also pay coinsurance for each day of partial 

hospitalization services provided in a hospital outpatient setting or community 

mental health center, and the Part B deductible applies. 

Nursing home care

Most nursing home care is custodial care, like help with bathing or dressing. 

Medicare doesn’t cover custodial care if that’s the only care you need. However, if 

it’s medically necessary for you to have skilled care (like changing sterile dressings), 

Part A may pay for care given in a certified skilled nursing facility if you meet 

certain requirements. See “Skilled nursing facility (SNF) care” on pages 51–52.

N
40 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Nutrition therapy services (medical)

Part B may cover medical nutrition therapy services and certain related services if 

you have diabetes or kidney disease, or you’ve had a kidney transplant in the last 

36 months, and your doctor or other health care provider refers you for the service. 

A registered dietitian or nutrition professional who meets certain requirements 

can provide these services. Services may include nutritional assessment, one-onone counseling, and therapy services, either in person or through an interactive 

telecommunications system. See “Diabetes services & supplies” on pages 23–25. If you 

get dialysis in a dialysis facility, Medicare covers medical nutrition therapy as part of 

your overall dialysis care.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for these services if the doctor or other health care 

professional accepts assignment.

Obesity screening & counseling

If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, Medicare covers intensive 

counseling to help you lose weight. This counseling may be covered if you get it in a 

primary care setting (like a doctor’s office), where it can be coordinated with your other 

care and a personalized prevention plan.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this service if the primary care doctor or other 

qualified primary care practitioner accepts assignment.

Observation services

See “Outpatient hospital services” on page 41.

Occupational therapy

See “Physical therapy/occupational therapy/speech-language pathology” on 

pages 42–43. 

Orthotics & artificial limbs

Part B covers artificial limbs and eyes, as well as arm, leg, back, and neck braces. 

Medicare doesn’t pay for orthopedic shoes unless they’re a necessary part of the leg 

brace. See “Diabetes services & supplies (therapeutic shoes)” on page 23. You must go 

to a supplier that’s enrolled in Medicare for Medicare to cover your orthotics. 

See “Artificial limbs & eyes” on page 14. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies. Medicare will only pay for orthotic items furnished by a supplier enrolled in 

Medicare, no matter who submits the claim (you or your supplier).

O
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 41

Ostomy supplies

Part B covers ostomy supplies for people who have had a colostomy, ileostomy, or 

urinary ostomy. Medicare covers the amount of supplies your doctor says you need, 

based on your condition. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services 

and supplies, and the Part B deductible applies.

Outpatient hospital services 

Part B covers medically necessary diagnostic and treatment services you get as an 

outpatient from a Medicare-participating hospital. Covered outpatient hospital 

services may include: 

•	 Emergency or observation services which may include an overnight stay in the 

hospital, or services in an outpatient clinic, including same-day surgery 

•	 Laboratory tests billed by the hospital 

•	 Mental health care in a partial hospitalization program, if a doctor certifies that 

inpatient treatment would be required without it (see “Partial hospitalization 

services” on page 39) 

•	 X-rays and other radiology services billed by the hospital 

•	 Medical supplies, like splints and casts 

•	 Screenings and preventive services

•	 Certain drugs and biologicals that you wouldn’t usually give yourself 

In 2015, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor 

or other health care provider’s services, and the Part B deductible applies. For all 

other services, you also generally pay a copayment for each service you get in an 

outpatient hospital setting. You may pay more for services you get in a hospital 

outpatient setting than you would pay for the same care in a doctor’s office. For 

some screenings and preventive services, coinsurance, copayments, and the Part B 

deductible don’t apply (so you pay nothing).
42 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Oxygen therapy

Part B covers the rental of oxygen equipment. If you own your own equipment, 

Medicare will help pay for oxygen contents and supplies for the delivery of oxygen 

when all of these conditions are met: 

•	 Your doctor says you have a severe lung disease or you’re not getting enough oxygen

•	 Your health might improve with oxygen therapy

•	 Your arterial blood gas level falls within a certain range

•	 Other alternative measures have failed

Under the above conditions, Medicare helps pay for: 

•	 Systems for furnishing oxygen 

•	 Containers that store oxygen 

•	 Tubing and related supplies for the delivery of oxygen and oxygen contents 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible

applies. If you live in certain areas of the country, you may have to use specific 

suppliers for Medicare to pay for oxygen, oxygen equipment, and supplies. 

See ”Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28.

Physical therapy/occupational therapy/speech-language 

pathology services

Part B helps pay for medically necessary outpatient physical and occupational therapy, 

and speech-language pathology services. There are yearly limits on these services 

when you get them from most outpatient providers. These limits are called “therapy 

caps.”

The therapy cap amounts for 2015 are:

•	 $1,940 for physical therapy (PT) and speech language pathology (SLP) services 

combined

•	 $1,940 for occupational therapy (OT) services

P
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 43

Physical therapy/occupational therapy/speech-language 

pathology services (continued)

You may qualify for an exception so that Medicare will continue to pay its share 

for your therapy services after you reach the therapy cap limits. Your therapist 

must document your need for medically necessary services in your medical record, 

and your therapist’s billing office must indicate on the claim for services above the 

therapy cap that your therapy services are medically necessary. 

A Medicare contractor may review your medical records to check for medical 

necessity if you get outpatient therapy services in 2015 higher than these amounts:

•	 $3,700 for PT and SLP combined

•	 $3,700 for OT

In general, if your therapist provides documentation that your therapy services 

were medically reasonable and necessary, you won’t have to pay for costs above the 

$1,940 therapy cap limits.

Your therapist must give you a written notice, called an “Advance Beneficiary 

Notice of Noncoverage” (ABN), before providing generally covered therapy 

services that aren’t medically reasonable and necessary for you at the time. 

Medicare doesn’t pay for therapy services that aren’t medically reasonable and 

necessary. The ABN lets you choose whether or not you want the therapy services. 

If you choose to get the services, you agree to pay for them if Medicare doesn’t 

pay. If you get therapy services that aren’t medically reasonable and necessary and 

Medicare doesn’t pay for them, you won’t have to pay for these services unless an 

ABN was given to you beforehand. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies. 

For more information on therapy caps, visit 

Medicare.gov/coverage/pt-and-ot-and-speech-language-pathology.html

Pneumococcal shot

Part B covers a pneumococcal shot to help prevent pneumococcal infections (like 

certain types of pneumonia). Talk with your doctor or other health care provider to 

see if you need this shot.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for a pneumococcal shot if your doctor or other 

qualified health care provider accepts assignment.
44 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Prescription drugs (outpatient) limited coverage

Part B covers a limited number of outpatient prescription drugs under limited 

conditions. Drugs not covered under Part B may be covered under Part D (Medicare 

prescription drug coverage). Generally, drugs covered under Part B are drugs you 

wouldn’t usually give to yourself, like those you get at a doctor’s office or hospital 

outpatient setting. Doctors and pharmacies must accept assignment for Part B drugs, 

so you should never be asked to pay more than the coinsurance or copayment for the 

drug itself. The Part B deductible also applies. 

Examples of drugs covered by Part B:

•	 Drugs used with an item of durable medical equipment: Medicare covers 

drugs infused through an item of durable medical equipment, like an infusion 

pump or drugs given by a nebulizer. 

•	 Some antigens: Medicare will help pay for antigens if they’re prepared by a 

doctor and given by a properly instructed person (who could be the patient) 

under appropriate supervision. 

•	 Injectable osteoporosis drugs: Medicare helps pay for an injectable drug for 

osteoporosis for certain women. See note for women with osteoporosis under 

“Home health services” on page 33. 

•	 Erythropoiesis–stimulating agents: Medicare will help pay for erythropoietin 

by injection if you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (permanent kidney 

failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant) or need this drug to treat anemia 

related to certain other conditions. 

•	 Blood clotting factors: If you have hemophilia, Medicare will help pay for 

clotting factors you give yourself by injection.

•	 Injectable and infused drugs: Medicare covers most injectable and infused 

drugs given by a licensed medical provider. 

•	 Immunosuppressive drugs: Medicare covers immunosuppressive drug therapy 

if Medicare helped pay for your organ transplant. 

Note: Medicare Prescription Drug Plans may cover immunosuppressive drugs, 

even if Medicare didn’t pay for the transplant. Part D also may cover other 

immunosuppressive drugs that aren’t covered by Part B.
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 45

Prescription drugs (outpatient) limited coverage (continued)

•	 Oral cancer drugs: Medicare will help pay for some cancer drugs you take by 

mouth if the same drug is available in injectable form or is a prodrug of the 

injectable drug. As new oral cancer drugs become available, Part B may cover 

them. 

•	 Oral anti-nausea drugs: Medicare will help pay for oral anti-nausea drugs 

used as part of an anti-cancer chemotherapeutic regimen. The drugs must be 

administered immediately before, at, or within 48 hours after chemotherapy, 

and must be used as a full therapeutic replacement for an intravenous antinausea drug. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered Part B 

prescription drugs that you get in a doctor’s office or pharmacy, and the 

Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you pay a copayment. 

However, if you get drugs that aren’t covered under Part B in a hospital outpatient 

setting, you pay 100% for the drugs unless you have Part D or other prescription 

drug coverage. In that case, what you pay depends on whether your drug plan 

covers the drug, and whether the hospital is in your drug plan’s network. Contact 

your prescription drug plan to find out what you pay for drugs you get in a 

hospital outpatient setting that aren’t covered under Part B.
46 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Preventive services

Part B covers these preventive and screening services: 

•	 Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening on page 12

•	 Alcohol misuse screening & counseling on page 13

•	 Bone mass measurement on page 15

•	 Cardiovascular disease (behavior therapy) on page 16

•	 Cardiovascular disease screenings on page 17

•	 Cervical & vaginal cancer screenings on page 17

•	 Colorectal cancer screening on pages 18–19 

•	 Depression screening on page 22

•	 Diabetes screenings on pages 22–23

•	 Diabetes self-management training on page 24

•	 Flu shots on page 31

•	 Glaucoma tests on page 32

•	 Hepatitis B shots on page 32

•	 Hepatitis C screening on page 33

•	 HIV screening on page 33

•	 Mammograms on page 38

•	 Nutrition therapy services (medical) on page 40

•	 Obesity screening & counseling on page 40

•	 Pneumococcal shots on page 43

•	 Prostate cancer screenings on page 48

•	 Sexually transmitted infections screening & counseling on page 51

•	 Tobacco use cessation counseling (counseling for people with no sign of 

tobacco-related disease) on page 54

•	 “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit on page 47

•	 Yearly “Wellness” visit on page 47
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 47

Preventive visits

Medicare covers 2 types of routine preventive visits: one when you’re new to 

Medicare and one each year after that.

“Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit

Part B covers a one-time “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. This visit includes 

a review of your medical and social history related to your health, and education 

and counseling about preventive services, including certain screenings, shots, and 

referrals for other care, if needed. 

Important: You must have the preventive visit within the first 12 months you have 

Part B. When you make your appointment, let your doctor’s office know you would 

like to schedule your “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the visit if the doctor or other qualified health 

care provider accepts assignment. 

Yearly “Wellness” visit

If you’ve had Part B for longer than 12 months, you can get a yearly “Wellness” visit 

to develop or update a personalized prevention plan to help prevent disease and 

disability, based on your current health and risk factors.

Your provider will ask you to fill out a questionnaire, called a “Health Risk Assessment,” as part of this visit. Answering these questions can help you and your 

provider develop a personalized prevention plan to help you stay healthy and get 

the most out of your visit.

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for this visit if the doctor or other qualified health 

care provider accepts assignment. This visit is covered once every 12 months. 

Note: Your first yearly “Wellness” visit can’t take place within 12 months of your 

enrollment in Part B or your “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. However, even 

if you never had a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit, you can have a yearly 

“Wellness” visit after you’ve had Part B for at least 12 months. 
48 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Prostate cancer screenings

Part B covers prostate cancer screening tests once every 12 months for men over 50 

(beginning the day after your 50th birthday). Covered screenings include:

Digital rectal exam

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for a yearly digital rectal 

exam and for the doctor’s services related to the exam, and the Part B deductible

applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you pay a copayment.

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for a yearly PSA blood test. If you get the test from a 

doctor that doesn’t accept assignment, you may have to pay an additional fee for the 

doctor’s services, but not for the test itself.

Prosthetic devices

Part B covers prosthetic devices needed to replace a body part or function when 

ordered by a doctor or other health care provider enrolled in Medicare. Prosthetic 

devices include, for example, Medicare-approved corrective lenses needed after a 

cataract operation (see “Eyeglasses/contact lenses” on page 31), ostomy bags and 

certain related supplies (see “Ostomy supplies” on page 41), and breast prostheses 

(including a surgical bra) after a mastectomy (see “Breast prostheses” on page 15.) 

You must go to a supplier that’s enrolled in Medicare for Medicare to pay for your 

device. Part A or Part B covers surgically implanted prosthetic devices depending on 

whether the surgery takes place in an inpatient or outpatient setting. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for external prosthetic 

devices, and the Part B deductible applies. Medicare will only pay for prosthetic 

items furnished by a supplier enrolled in Medicare, no matter who submits the claim

(you or your supplier). For surgeries to implant prosthetic devices in a hospital 

inpatient setting covered under Part A, see “Hospital care (inpatient)” on page 36. 

For surgeries to implant prosthetic devices in a hospital outpatient setting covered 

under Part B, see “Outpatient hospital services” on page 41. 
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 49

Pulmonary rehabilitation program

Medicare covers a comprehensive program of pulmonary rehabilitation if you 

have moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and 

have a referral for pulmonary rehabilitation from the doctor treating this chronic 

respiratory disease. These services are intended to help you breathe better, make you 

stronger, and be able to live more independently. These services may be provided in 

a doctor’s office or a hospital outpatient setting that offers pulmonary rehabilitation 

programs.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount if you get the service in 

a doctor’s office. You also pay a copayment per session if you get the service in a 

hospital outpatient setting. The Part B deductible applies.

Radiation therapy

Part A covers radiation therapy for hospital inpatients. Part B covers this therapy for 

outpatients or patients in freestanding clinics.

In 2015, you pay the Part A deductible and coinsurance (if applicable) as an 

inpatient.

In 2015, you pay a set copayment as an outpatient, and the Part B deductible 

applies. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the therapy at a 

freestanding facility, and the Part B deductible applies.

Religious nonmedical health care institution (RNHCI) items 

& services

In RNHCIs, religious beliefs prohibit conventional and unconventional medical care, 

so if you qualify for hospital or skilled nursing facility care, Medicare will only cover 

the inpatient non-religious, non-medical items and services. Examples include room 

and board, or any items or services that don’t require a doctor’s order or prescription, 

like unmedicated wound dressings or use of a simple walker.

Medicare doesn’t cover the religious portion of RNHCI care. However, Part A 

covers inpatient non-religious, non-medical care when these conditions are met: 

•	 The RNHCI is currently certified to participate in Medicare. 

•	 The RNHCI Utilization Review Committee agrees that you would require 

hospital or skilled nursing facility care if you weren’t In the RNHCI.

R
50 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Religious nonmedical health care institution (RNHCI) items & 

services (continued)

•	 You have a written election on file with Medicare indicating that your need for 

RNHCI care is based on both your eligibility and religious beliefs. The election 

must also indicate that if you decide to accept standard medical care, you’ll cancel 

the election and may have to wait 1–5 years (depending on how many times you 

may have previously revoked your election) to be eligible for a new election to get 

RNHCI services. Please note that you’re always eligible to get medically necessary 

Part A services. 

In 2015, for each benefit period you pay:

– Days 1–60: $1,260 deductible.

– Days 61–90: $315 coinsurance each day.

– Days 91–150: $630 coinsurance each day.

– Each day beyond 150 days: all costs.

Respite care (inpatient)

See “Hospice care” on pages 34–35. 

Rural health clinic services 

Part B covers a broad range of outpatient primary care and preventive services in 

rural health clinics. 

In 2015, you generally pay 20% of the charges, and the Part B deductible applies. 

You pay nothing for most preventive services. 

Second surgical opinions

Part B covers second surgical opinions in some cases for surgery that isn’t an 

emergency. A second opinion is when another doctor gives his or her view about 

your health problem and how it should be treated. Medicare also will help pay for a 

third opinion if the first and second opinions are different. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies.

S
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 51

Sexually transmitted infections screening & counseling

Medicare covers sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings for chlamydia, 

gonorrhea, syphilis, and/or Hepatitis B. These screenings are covered for people 

with Part B who are pregnant and for certain people who are at increased risk for 

an STI when the tests are ordered by a primary care doctor or other primary care 

practitioner. Medicare covers these tests once every 12 months or at certain times 

during pregnancy.

Medicare also covers up to 2 individual 20 to 30 minute, face-to-face, high-intensity 

behavioral counseling sessions each year for sexually active adults at increased risk for 

STIs. Medicare will only cover these counseling sessions if they’re provided by a primary 

care doctor or other primary care practitioner and take place in a primary care doctor’s 

office or primary care clinic. Counseling conducted in an inpatient setting, like a skilled 

nursing facility, won’t be covered as a preventive service. 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING if the primary care doctor or primary care practitioner 

accepts assignment.

Shots (vaccinations) 

Part B covers: 

•	 Flu shots on page 31

•	 Hepatitis B shots on page 32

•	 Pneumococcal shots on page 43

Skilled nursing facility (SNF) care 

Part A covers skilled care provided in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) under certain 

conditions for a limited time. Skilled care is nursing and therapy care that can only 

be safely and effectively performed by, or under the supervision of, professionals or 

technical personnel. It is health care given when you need skilled nursing or skilled 

therapy to treat, manage, and observe your condition, and evaluate your care. Medicare 

covers certain daily skilled care services on a short-term basis (up to 100 days in a 

benefit period).

In 2015, you pay the following for each benefit period (following at least a 3-day 

medically necessary inpatient hospital stay for a related illness or injury):

– Days 1–20: $0 each day

– Days 21–100: up to $157.50 each day

– Beyond 100 days: 100% of all costs

There’s a limit of 100 days of Part A SNF coverage in each benefit period.
52 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Skilled nursing facility (SNF) care (continued) 

Medicare will cover SNF care if all these conditions are met: 

1. You have Part A and have days left in your benefit period to use.

2. You have a qualifying inpatient hospital stay. This means a prior medically necessary

inpatient hospital stay of 3 consecutive calendar days or more, including the day 

you’re admitted to the hospital, but not including the day you leave the hospital. 

Note: Time that you spend in a hospital as an outpatient before you’re admitted as 

an inpatient doesn’t count toward the 3 inpatient hospital days you need to have a 

qualifying inpatient hospital stay for SNF benefit purposes. Observation services 

aren’t counted as part of the qualifying inpatient hospital stay. You aren’t an 

inpatient until you’re formally admitted as an inpatient. See “Outpatient hospital 

services” on page 41. 

You must enter the SNF within a short time (generally 30 days) of leaving the 

hospital and require skilled services related to your hospital stay. See item 5 below. 

After you leave the SNF, if you re-enter the same or another SNF within 30 days, you 

don’t need another 3-day qualifying inpatient hospital stay to get additional SNF 

benefits. This is also true if you stop getting skilled care while in the SNF and then 

start getting skilled care again within 30 days. 

3. Your doctor has decided that you need daily skilled care. It must be given by, or 

under the supervision of, skilled nursing or therapy staff. If you’re in the SNF for 

skilled therapy services only, your care is considered daily care even if these therapy 

services are offered just 5 or 6 days a week, as long as you need and get the therapy 

services each day they’re offered. 

4. You get these skilled services in a SNF that’s certified by Medicare. 

5. You need these skilled services for a medical condition that’s either: 

•	 An ongoing condition that was also treated during your qualifying 3-day inpatient 

hospital stay, even if it wasn’t the reason you were admitted to the hospital. 

•	 A new condition that started while you were getting care in the SNF for the 

ongoing condition. For example, if while you’re getting SNF care for a stroke that 

was also treated during your qualifying 3-day inpatient hospital stay, you develop 

an infection that requires IV antibiotics, Medicare will cover your SNF care for 

treating the infection (as long as you also meet the conditions listed in items 1-4).
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 53

Skilled nursing facility (SNF) care (continued)

If you’re getting care in a SNF that doesn’t meet the conditions above, your stay won’t 

be covered by Part A, but some services you get during a non-covered stay may 

be covered by Part B. Any Part B therapy services (physical therapy, occupational 

therapy, and speech-language pathology services) furnished during a non-covered 

stay in the Medicare-certified part of the facility must be billed by the facility itself. 

No other therapy service may be billed during the same time period by another 

setting, like an outpatient hospital clinic. 

Swing-bed services

Medicare covers swing bed services in certain hospitals and critical access hospitals 

(CAHs) when the hospital or CAH has entered into a “swing-bed” agreement with 

the Department of Health and Human Services, under which the facility can “swing” 

its beds and provide either acute hospital or SNF-level care, as needed. 

In 2015, when swing beds are used to furnish SNF-level care, the same coverage and 

cost-sharing rules apply as though the services were furnished in a SNF.

Speech-language pathology

See “Physical therapy/occupational therapy/speech-language pathology” on 

pages 42–43. 

Supplies (you use at home)

Part B generally doesn’t cover common medical supplies like bandages and gauze. 

Medicare covers some diabetes and dialysis supplies. See “Diabetes services & 

supplies” on pages 23–25 and “Dialysis (kidney) services & supplies” on 

pages 26–27. For items like walkers, oxygen, and wheelchairs, see “Durable 

medical equipment” on pages 27–28. 

In 2015, you pay 100% for most common medical supplies you use at home. 

Surgical dressing services

Part B covers medically necessary treatment of a surgical or surgically treated wound.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor or other 

health care provider’s services. You pay a fixed copayment for these services when 

you get them in a hospital outpatient setting. The Part B deductible applies. You pay 

nothing for the supplies.
54 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Telehealth

Part B covers certain services like office visits and consultations that are provided 

using an interactive 2-way telecommunications system (with real-time audio and 

video) by a doctor or certain other health care provider who isn’t at your location. 

These services are available in some rural areas, under certain conditions, but only if 

the patient is located at one of these places: a doctor’s office, hospital, critical access 

hospital, rural health clinic, federally qualified health center, hospital-based or 

critical access hospital-based dialysis facility, skilled nursing facility, or community 

mental health center.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor or other 

health care provider’s services, and the Part B deductible applies. 

Therapeutic shoes

See “Diabetes services & supplies (therapeutic shoes)” on page 23. 

Tobacco use cessation counseling (counseling to stop smoking 

or using tobacco products)

If you haven’t yet been diagnosed with an illness caused or complicated by tobacco 

use, Medicare coverage of tobacco use cessation counseling is considered a covered 

preventive service. Part B covers up to 8 face-to-face smoking and tobacco use 

cessation counseling visits in a 12-month period. 

In 2015, you pay NOTHING for the counseling sessions if the doctor or other 

qualified health care provider accepts assignment.

If you use tobacco and you’re diagnosed with an illness caused or complicated by 

tobacco use, or you take a medicine that’s affected by tobacco, Part B covers up to 8 

face-to-face smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling visits in a 12-month period. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services, 

and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you pay the 

hospital a copayment.

Transplants (doctor services)

Part B covers doctor services for certain organ transplants. See “Transplants (facility 

charges)” on page 55.

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services, 

and the Part B deductible applies.

T
Section 2: What Original Medicare covers 55

Transplants (facility charges)

Part A covers services for heart, lung, kidney, pancreas, intestine, and liver organ 

transplants under certain conditions but only in a Medicare-approved facility. 

Part A also covers stem cell transplants under certain conditions. Part B covers 

cornea transplants under some conditions. Stem cell and cornea transplants aren’t 

limited to approved facilities. Organ transplant coverage includes necessary tests 

and exams before surgery. It also includes immunosuppressive drugs (under certain 

conditions), follow-up care, and procurement of organs. Medicare pays for the costs 

for a living donor for a kidney transplant. 

In 2015, you pay various amounts. For inpatient transplants, see “Hospital care 

(inpatient)” on page 36.

Transportation (routine)

Medicare doesn’t cover transportation to get health care unless an ambulance is 

necessary because other transportation could endanger your health and other 

conditions are met. For more information, see “Ambulance services” on page 13.

Travel (health care needed when traveling outside the U. S.)

Medicare generally doesn’t cover health care while you’re traveling outside the U.S. 

The 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 

the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa are considered part of the U.S. 

There are some exceptions, including some cases where Part B may pay for services 

that you get on board a ship within the territorial waters adjoining the land areas of 

the U.S. Medicare may pay for inpatient hospital, doctor, or ambulance services you 

get in a foreign country in these rare cases:

1.You’re in the U.S. when an emergency occurs and the foreign hospital is closer 

than the nearest U.S. hospital that can treat your medical condition. 

2.You’re traveling through Canada without unreasonable delay by the most direct 

route between Alaska and another state when a medical emergency occurs and 

the Canadian hospital is closer than the nearest U.S. hospital that can treat the 

emergency. 

3.You live in the U.S. and the foreign hospital is closer to your home than the 

nearest U.S. hospital that can treat your medical condition, regardless of whether 

an emergency exists. 
56 Section 2: What Original Medicare covers

Travel (health care needed when traveling outside the U. S.) 

(continued)

Medicare may cover medically necessary ambulance transportation to a foreign 

hospital only with admission for medically necessary covered inpatient services. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the physician and 

ambulance services, and the Part B deductible applies.

Urgently needed care

Part B covers this care to treat a sudden illness or injury that isn’t a medical 

emergency. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor or other 

health care provider’s services, and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital 

outpatient setting, you also pay the hospital a copayment.

Walker/wheelchair

Part B covers walkers, wheelchairs, and power-operated vehicles (scooters) as 

durable medical equipment that your doctor prescribes for use in your home. 

If you live in certain areas of the country, you may have to use specific suppliers for 

Medicare to pay for standard (power and manual) wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, 

and related accessories. See “Durable medical equipment” on pages 27–28. 

Power wheelchair: You must have a face-to-face examination and a written 

prescription from a doctor or other treating provider before Medicare helps pay for 

a power wheelchair. Power wheelchairs are covered only when they’re medically 

necessary. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies.

X-rays

Part B covers medically necessary diagnostic X-rays that are ordered by your 

treating doctor or other health care provider. For more information, see “Diagnostic 

tests, X-rays, & clinical laboratory tests” on page 25. 

In 2015, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible 

applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you pay a copayment. 

U

W

X
57

SECTION

For more information 3

Visit MyMedicare.gov for personalized information 

Register at MyMedicare.gov, Medicare’s secure online service for accessing 

your personal Medicare information. You can use this website to: 

•	 Complete your “Initial Enrollment Questionnaire” (IEQ) so your bills 

get paid correctly. 

•	 Manage your personal information (like medical conditions, allergies, 

and implanted devices). 

•	 Manage your personal drug list and pharmacy information. 

•	 Search for, add to, and manage a list of your favorite providers and 

access quality information about them. 

•	 Track Original Medicare claims and your Part B deductible status. 

•	 Order copies of your “Medicare Summary Notice” (MSN).
58

Visit Medicare.gov for general information about Medicare 

You can use this website to: 

•	 Get detailed information about the Medicare health and prescription drug 

plans in your area, including what they cost and what services they provide.

•	 Find doctors or other health care providers and suppliers who participate in 

Medicare.

•	 See what Medicare covers, including preventive services.

•	 Get Medicare appeals information and forms. 

•	 Get information about the quality of care provided by plans, nursing homes, 

hospitals, home health agencies, and dialysis facilities. 

•	 Look up helpful websites and phone numbers.

•	 View or print detailed booklets and fact sheets on various Medicare topics. 

Call 1-800-MEDICARE for answers to your Medicare 

questions 

The 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) helpline has a speech-automated 

system to make it easier for you to get the information you need 24 hours a day, 

including weekends. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. 

The system will ask you questions to direct your call automatically. Speak clearly, 

call from a quiet area, and have your Medicare card in front of you. If you need 

help, you can say “Agent” at any time to talk to a customer service representative. 

If you need help in a language other than English or Spanish, say “Agent.” 

Note: If you want Medicare to give your personal health information to someone 

other than you, you need to let Medicare know in writing. You can fill out a 

“Medicare Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information” form. 

You can do this online by visiting Medicare.gov/medicareonlineforms, or by 

calling 1-800-MEDICARE to get a copy of the form.

Section 3: For more information
Section 3: For more information 59

Other important contacts 

Below are phone numbers and websites for organizations that provide nationwide services. 

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)–Get 

personalized Medicare counseling at no cost to you.

Visit Medicare.gov/contacts, or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for your 

SHIP’s phone number. TTY: 1-877-486-2048. 

Social Security–Get a replacement Medicare card, change 

your address or name, find out if you’re eligible for Part 

A and/or Part B and how to enroll, apply for Extra Help 

with Medicare prescription drug costs, ask questions about 

premiums, and report a death. 

1-800-772-1213. TTY: 1-800-325-0778.

socialsecurity.gov

Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center (BCRC) –

Find out if Medicare or your other insurance pays first, let 

Medicare know you have other insurance, or report changes 

in your insurance information.

1-855-798-2627. TTY: 1-855-797-2627.

Department of Defense–Get information about TRICARE 

for Life and the TRICARE Pharmacy Program.

 

1-866-773-0404 (TFL). TTY: 1-866-773-0405. 

1-877-363-1303 (Pharmacy). 

TTY: 1-877-540-6261.

tricare.mil/mybenefit

Department of Health and Human Services Office for 

Civil Rights–If you think you were discriminated against or if 

your health information privacy rights were violated. 

1-800-368-1019. TTY: 1-800-537-7697.

hhs.gov/ocr

Department of Veterans Affairs–If you’re a veteran or have 

served in the U.S. military. 

1-800-827-1000. TTY: 1-800-829-4833.

va.gov

Office of Personnel Management–Get information about 

the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program for current 

and retired federal employees.

1-888-767-6738. TTY: 1-800-878-5707.

opm.gov/insure

Railroad Retirement Board (RRB)–If you have benefits 

from the RRB, call them to change your address or name, 

check eligibility, enroll in Medicare, replace your Medicare 

card, or report a death. 

1-877-772-5772. TTY: 1-312-751-4701.

rrb.gov

Beneficiary and Family Centered Care Quality 

Improvement Organization (BFCC-QIO)–Ask questions 

or report a complaint about the quality of care for a Medicarecovered service or if you think Medicare coverage for your 

service is ending too soon.

Visit Medicare.gov/contacts, or call 

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for your 

BFCC-QIO’s phone number. 

TTY: 1-877-486-2048. 
60 Section 3: For more information

Notes
61

Definitions

4 Ambulatory surgical center—A facility where certain 

surgeries may be performed for patients who aren’t expected to 

need more than 24 hours of care. 

Appeal—An appeal is the action you can take if you disagree with 

a coverage or payment decision made by Medicare, your Medicare 

health plan, or your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. You have 

the right to appeal if Medicare, your Medicare health plan, or your 

Medicare drug plan denies one of these:

•	 A request for a health care service, supply, item, or prescription 

that you think you should be able to get 

•	 A request for payment of a health care service, supply, item, or 

a prescription drug you already got 

•	 A request to change the amount you must pay for a health care 

service, supply, item, or prescription drug

You can also appeal if Medicare, your Medicare health plan, or 

your Medicare drug plan stops providing or paying for all or part 

of a health care service, supply, item, or prescription drug you 

think you still need. 

Assignment—An agreement by your doctor, provider, or supplier 

to be paid directly by Medicare, to accept the payment amount 

Medicare approves for the service, and not to bill you for any more 

than the Medicare deductible and coinsurance. 

SECTION
62 Section 4: Definitions

Benefit period—The way that Original 

Medicare measures your use of hospital and 

skilled nursing facility (SNF) services. A benefit 

period begins the day you’re admitted as an 

inpatient in a hospital or SNF. The benefit period 

ends when you haven’t received any inpatient 

hospital care (or skilled care in a SNF) for 60 

days in a row. If you go into a hospital or a SNF 

after one benefit period has ended, a new benefit 

period begins. You must pay the inpatient 

hospital deductible for each benefit period. 

There’s no limit to the number of benefit periods.

Claim—A request for payment that you submit to 

Medicare or other health insurance when you get 

items and services that you think are covered.

Coinsurance—An amount you may be required 

to pay as your share of the cost for services after 

you pay any deductibles. Coinsurance is usually a 

percentage (for example, 20%). 

Copayment—An amount you may be required 

to pay as your share of the cost for a medical 

service or supply, like a doctor’s visit, hospital 

outpatient visit, or prescription drug. 

A copayment is usually a set amount, rather than 

a percentage. For example, you might pay $10 or 

$20 for a doctor’s visit or prescription. 

Critical access hospital—A small facility that 

provides outpatient services, as well as inpatient 

services on a limited basis, to people in rural 

areas.

Deductible—The amount you must pay for 

health care or prescriptions before Original 

Medicare, your prescription drug plan, or your 

other insurance begins to pay.

Hospice—A special way of caring for people 

who are terminally ill. Hospice care involves 

a team-oriented approach that addresses the 

medical, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual 

needs of the patient. Hospice also provides 

support to the patient’s family or caregiver.

Lifetime reserve days —In Original Medicare, 

these are additional days that Medicare will pay 

for when you’re in a hospital for more than 90 

days. You have a total of 60 reserve days that can 

be used during your lifetime. For each lifetime 

reserve day, Medicare pays all covered costs 

except for a daily coinsurance. 

Medically necessary—Health care services or 

supplies needed to prevent, diagnose, or treat an 

illness, injury, condition, disease, or its symptoms 

and that meet accepted standards of medicine.

Medicare-approved amount—In Original 

Medicare, this is the amount a doctor or supplier 

that accepts assignment can be paid. It may be 

less than the actual amount a doctor or supplier 

charges. Medicare pays part of this amount and 

you’re responsible for the difference.

Medicare health plan—Generally, a plan 

offered by a private company that contracts 

with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B 

benefits to people with Medicare who enroll 

in the plan. Medicare health plans include all 

Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Cost Plans, 

and Demonstration/Pilot Programs. Programs 

of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) 

organizations are special types of Medicare 

health plans that can be offered by public or 

private entities and provide Part D and other 

benefits in addition to Part A and Part B benefits. 

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)—

Part A covers for inpatient hospital stays, care in 

a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some 

home health care.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)—

Part B covers for certain doctors’ services, 

outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive 

services.
Section 4: Definitions 63

Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)—

Part D adds prescription drug coverage to 

Original Medicare, some Medicare Cost Plans, 

some Medicare Private-Fee-for-Service Plans, and 

Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans. 

These plans are offered by insurance companies 

and other private companies approved by 

Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans may also 

offer prescription drug coverage that follows the 

same rules as Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. 

Preventive services—Health care to prevent 

illness or detect illness at an early stage, when 

treatment is likely to work best (for example, 

preventive services include Pap tests, flu shots, and 

screening mammograms).

Prodrug—An oral form of a drug that when 

ingested breaks down into the same active 

ingredient found in the injectable form of the drug.

Referral—A written order from your primary 

care doctor for you to see a specialist or get certain 

medical services. In many Health Maintenance 

Organizations (HMOs), you need to get a referral 

before you can get medical care from anyone 

except your primary care doctor. If you don’t get a 

referral first, the plan may not pay for the services.

Religious Nonmedical Health Care Institution 

(RNHCI)—A facility that provides nonmedical 

health care items and services to people who need 

hospital or skilled nursing facility care, but for 

whom that care would be inconsistent with their 

religious beliefs.
64 Section 4: Definitions

Notes
Section 4: Definitions 65

Notes
66 Section 4: Definitions

Notes
Important Information about this guide

The information in this booklet describes the Medicare Program at the time this booklet was 

printed. Changes may occur after printing. Visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE 

(1-800-633-4227) to get the most current information. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

You have the right to get the information in this booklet in an alternate format. Visit Medicare.

gov/about-us/nondiscrimination/nondiscrimination-notice.html, or call 1-800-MEDICARE 

for more information. 

“Your Medicare Benefits” isn’t a legal document. Official Medicare Program legal guidance is 

contained in the relevant statutes, regulations, and rulings.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 

7500 Security Boulevard

Baltimore, Maryland 21244-1850

Official Business 

Penalty for Private Use, $300 

CMS Product No. 10116

Revised January 2015

Your Medicare Benefits

■ Medicare.gov 

■ 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 

■ TTY: 1-877-486-2048 

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Llame GRATIS al 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).