Medicare coverage for diabetes management

Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans provide a broad spectrum of support and services to help you manage your diabetes. It is in the best interest of your health as well as your wallet to become familiar with your benefits.

For example, if your doctor determines you are at risk, Medicare Part B will cover the cost of up to 2 diabetes screenings each year.

Part B will also cover outpatient training for people at risk for complications from diabetes or recently diagnosed with diabetes. Training will include tips for eating healthy, being active, monitoring blood sugar and taking medication. Your doctor or other health care provider must provide a written order to a certified diabetes self-management education program for this to be covered. You will be responsible for 20% of the Medicare approved amount as well as any Part B deductible.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug coverage) is the part of your Medicare Plan that covers medications prescribed to manage diabetes. Part D also covers certain medical supplies for administration of insulin, including syringes, needles, alcohol swabs, gauze, and inhaled insulin devices. As with other medications, when you purchase prescriptions or other supplies, you will be responsible for your coinsurance, copays and any Part D deductible.

Even if you don’t use insulin, Medicare Part B covers blood sugar self-testing equipment and supplies with a prescription from your doctor. Self-testing supplies include monitors, test strips, lancet devices, lancets and glucose control solutions. Check with your Medicare provider before ordering any supplies or durable medical equipment for the name of their recommended provider. Physicians and suppliers have to meet strict standards to be enrolled in Medicare. If your doctors or suppliers aren’t enrolled, Medicare won’t pay the claims submitted by them. If suppliers don't accept assignment, there’s no limit on the amount they can charge you.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, it will provide you with the same coverage as Original Medicare, and often additional benefits.

The management of diabetes can be complicated, but help is available. The tips  presented here are general guidelines and you should always verify that your  providers accept Medicare assignments. For more specific benefit information, contact your insurance agent or consult your Medicare plan materials.

Got questions on health, life or Medicare Insurance? Contact me at 440-255-5700 or email me. I’ll answer your questions and help you find the right insurance plan for you.