Supplies
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides coverage for certain medical supplies and durable medical equipment that are considered medically necessary for treating a specific condition or illness. Coverage varies between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, with different rules and potential out-of-pocket costs.
- Medicare covers medically necessary supplies prescribed by a healthcare provider
- Durable medical equipment (DME) is typically covered under Part B
- Supplies must be used in the home and serve a medical purpose
- Beneficiaries may need to use Medicare-approved suppliers
- Some supplies require prior authorization from Medicare
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Individuals with a qualifying medical condition
- Supplies must be prescribed by a Medicare-enrolled healthcare provider
- Must meet Medicare's medical necessity criteria
- Part B typically covers 80% of approved supply costs after meeting the annual deductible
- Beneficiaries are responsible for 20% coinsurance
- Some supplies may require full out-of-pocket payment
- Costs can vary depending on specific Medicare plan
- Supplies must be deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider
- Not all medical supplies are automatically covered
- Supplies must be prescribed and documented by a Medicare-enrolled physician
- Some supplies have quantity or frequency restrictions
- Consult with your healthcare provider about specific supply needs
- Verify coverage with your Medicare plan before purchasing
- Obtain a prescription and documentation for medical supplies
- Use Medicare-approved suppliers to ensure coverage
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE for specific coverage questions
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicare suppliesmedical equipmentMedicare coveragedurable medical equipmenthealthcare supplies
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