Enteral & parenteral nutrition (nutrients, supplies & equipment)
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides coverage for enteral and parenteral nutrition for patients who cannot consume food normally and require specialized nutritional support. Coverage includes nutrients, supplies, and necessary medical equipment when deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider.
- Covers enteral and parenteral nutrition for patients with specific medical conditions
- Requires physician documentation of medical necessity
- Includes nutrients, feeding tubes, pumps, and related medical supplies
- Coverage may differ between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans
- Typically covered under Medicare Part B for outpatient services
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Patients with documented medical conditions requiring specialized nutrition
- Individuals unable to consume nutrients through normal eating
- Patients typically pay 20% of Medicare-approved costs after meeting Part B deductible
- Durable medical equipment may have different cost-sharing requirements
- Some supplies might require rental or purchase arrangements
- Must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider
- Requires documentation proving medical necessity
- Limited to specific medical conditions preventing normal nutrition intake
- Some advanced or specialized nutritional products may not be fully covered
- Consult with your healthcare provider about medical necessity
- Get a detailed prescription and documentation
- Contact Medicare or your Medicare Advantage plan for specific coverage details
- Review your plan's specific coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicareenteral nutritionparenteral nutritionmedical nutritiontube feeding
Related Coverage Topics
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