Radiation therapy
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides comprehensive coverage for radiation therapy as a critical cancer treatment. Both hospital and outpatient radiation treatments are typically covered under Medicare Part A and Part B, helping patients receive essential medical care with reduced out-of-pocket expenses.
- Radiation therapy is covered when medically necessary for cancer treatment
- Covered under both Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (outpatient)
- Treatment must be performed by Medicare-approved healthcare providers
- Includes external beam radiation and internal radiation treatments
- Requires physician documentation of medical necessity
- Medicare Part A and Part B beneficiaries
- Patients with diagnosed conditions requiring radiation treatment
- Treatment must be prescribed by a Medicare-approved physician
- No age restrictions for medically necessary radiation therapy
- Part B typically covers 80% of radiation therapy costs after meeting annual deductible
- Patients generally responsible for 20% coinsurance
- Supplemental Medigap plans may help cover remaining costs
- Actual out-of-pocket expenses vary by specific treatment and individual plan
- Must be deemed medically necessary by healthcare provider
- Requires pre-authorization from Medicare in some cases
- Limited to treatments approved by Medicare guidelines
- Some experimental or cutting-edge radiation techniques might not be covered
- Consult with your oncologist about specific radiation therapy needs
- Verify coverage details with your specific Medicare plan
- Request a pre-treatment coverage determination from Medicare
- 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 radiation therapycancer treatment coverageMedicare Part B radiationcancer care benefitsradiation therapy costs
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