Does Medicare Cover COVID Testing and Treatment?

As COVID-19 spreads across the United States, many older adults are wondering, “Does Medicare cover COVID testing?” This is a legitimate question as the virus, unfortunately is more deadly for those 65 years and older. Not only is it important to know if Medicare covers COVID testing, it is just as important to know if Medicare covers COVID treatment.

This post will answer these two important questions about Medicare and COVID testing and treatment.

Does Medicare Cover COVID Testing

Fortunately, Original Medicare does cover the cost of COVID testing. Whether your personal doctor or a hospital physician gives you the test, you will not have to pay for it. Even if you need to have a trained technician visit your home, your Medicare plan will cover the entire cost. Due to the severity of the pandemic and the threat it poses to people over 65 years of age, Original Medicare picks up 100% of the tab. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is very worrisome for Medicare beneficiaries. Since most Medicare recipients are over the age of 65, they fall within the high-risk demographic. If you’re 65 or older, you’re at a higher risk of having severe or even fatal symptoms if you catch coronavirus.

Does Medicare Cover COVID Treatment

In short, yes, Medicare does cover the cost of medically necessary treatment of coronavirus. If your symptoms are mild, you may not need any inpatient care. However, if you are admitted to a hospital due to coronavirus, Medicare Part A will cover the cost of inpatient care, while Medicare Part B will cover outpatient care. If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, it will also cover your treatment. However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t incur any costs. You will still have to pay your deductibles, copays, drug costs, and any coinsurances that apply. If you have a prescription drug plan (Medicare Part D) or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, you might be able to save on some or all of these expenses.

How Can You Get Tested and Treated for Coronavirus?

In order to stem the spread of COVID-19, Medicare is making it easier for people to use telehealth services. This means that you can contact a clinic or hospital to request testing. You can either arrange to visit a medical facility to get tested or have someone come to your home. If the test comes back positive, you may be asked to self-quarantine in your home. You will receive treatment as needed. If your symptoms become severe, you will be admitted to the hospital for inpatient care.

Bottom Line
COVID-19 is far from over, so learning the facts about testing and treatment is vital. Medicare does pay for COVID testing. It also pays for most inpatient and outpatient care. To save even more on treatment, you can purchase Medigap and Part D health coverage.

If you’d like to learn more about your Medicare coverage and COVID testing and treatment, feel free to fill out the form or (866) 327‑0148 anytime to ask any questions that may be lingering. We guarantee you that your licensed agent is focused first and foremost on providing you with information with zero pressure to enroll in a plan. You can also learn what else does Medicare cover by clicking this link.