Emergency department services
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides coverage for emergency department services when you experience a sudden medical condition requiring immediate treatment. Most emergency services are covered under Medicare Part B, with specific cost-sharing requirements depending on the type of facility and treatment.
- Emergency services are covered when medically necessary
- Medicare Part B covers most emergency department visits
- You may be responsible for copayments and deductibles
- Coverage applies to both hospital-based and standalone emergency departments
- Urgent care for life-threatening conditions is fully covered
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plan members
- U.S. citizens and legal residents who qualify for Medicare
- 20% coinsurance after meeting Part B deductible
- Potential additional hospital facility fees
- Lower costs if treated in in-network emergency facilities
- Must be deemed medically necessary by healthcare professionals
- Some non-emergency treatments may not be fully covered
- Out-of-network emergency services might have higher out-of-pocket costs
- Verify emergency department coverage with your specific Medicare plan
- Keep Medicare card accessible during emergencies
- Understand your potential out-of-pocket costs
- 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 emergency room coverageemergency department servicesMedicare Part B emergency carehospital emergency roomurgent medical treatment
Related Coverage Topics
Questions About Emergency department services?
Our experts can help you understand your Medicare coverage for emergency department services. Get personalized guidance on costs, eligibility, and next steps.