Blood
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides coverage for blood transfusions and blood-related medical services in hospital and outpatient settings. Beneficiaries may be responsible for some costs, depending on their specific Medicare plan and medical circumstances.
- Medicare covers medically necessary blood transfusions in hospitals and outpatient settings
- You typically pay for the first 3 units of blood per calendar year
- After the first 3 units, Medicare covers blood costs at no additional charge
- Coverage applies to both inpatient and outpatient blood services
- Blood must be obtained from a Medicare-certified provider
- Medicare Part A and Part B beneficiaries
- Individuals receiving medically necessary blood transfusions
- Patients in hospital or outpatient settings
- First 3 units of blood: Patient responsibility
- Additional units: Covered 100% by Medicare
- Potential coinsurance or deductible may apply depending on service setting
- Coverage limited to medically necessary blood transfusions
- Must be provided by Medicare-approved healthcare providers
- Some private blood banks may have different billing procedures
- Confirm blood coverage with your specific Medicare plan
- Discuss blood transfusion needs with your healthcare provider
- Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE for specific coverage questions
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicare blood coverageblood transfusionMedicare Part AMedicare Part Bhospital blood services
Related Coverage Topics
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