Does Medicare Cover Incontinence Supplies?

Although Medicare does not cover incontinence supplies such as adult diapers, underwear or pads, Medicare Part B may cover catheters in certain situations to help relieve symptoms of urinary incontinence.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans also don't cover incontinence supplies, but they can help pay for the costs of other Medicare-approved devices, equipment and treatment.

Medicare doesn't cover incontinence supplies but may cover other treatment options.

Why Doesn't Medicare Pay for Underwear?

Medicare recipients with incontinence will only be covered for treatments that are deemed “medically necessary.” Because adult diapers, pads and other supplies are not classified as medically necessary, Medicare does not pay for Depends or other incontinence supplies.

However, there are some things related to incontinence supplies covered by Medicare such as medically necessary appointments and procedures related to diagnosing and caring for incontinence.

• Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital services

• Medicare Part B covers doctors services and durable medical equipment (DME), which can include catheters in some cases

How Can You Save Money on Chux Pads?

Because Medicare does not pay for incontinence products, buying them for yourself or someone you care for can get expensive quickly.

Here are some tips for spending less on the products you need:

• Buy in bulk
  Plenty of retailers will sell supplies for less when you purchase a large amount at one time. Check online for bulk specials to ensure you’re getting the best deal. 

• Buy online
  Large retailers (like Walmart, Amazon, CVS or Walgreens) will sometimes offer discount programs to shoppers buying online. Plus, as an added bonus, the products will be delivered discreetly and conveniently to your home.

• Consider washables
  Although most people prefer disposable pads, washable products can be even more comfortable and provide better protection than disposable products.
  
  By trying a combination of washables and disposables, you can create less waste and save more money.

• Switch to generic
  If you have one brand that you are comfortable with that you know works best for you, you can skip this one.
  
  But if you tend to buy different brands or aren’t picky about your product, switching to a cheaper, generic brand can save you big bucks over time.

• Check for promotions
  Some brands will send you a free sample of a product before you buy it or offer discounts for first time buyers.
  
  A quick internet search can help you find some of these offers when they are available.

Find Medicare Supplement Plans That Help Cover Your Medicare Costs

If you receive treatment for symptoms of urinary incontinence that is covered by Medicare, you may likely face out-of-pocket Medicare costs such as deductibles, coinsurance and copayments.

A Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan can help cover some of these costs.

For example, each of the 10 standardized Medigap plans available in most states help pay for the Medicare coinsurance or copayments you might face when you receive covered treatments.

Learn more about common procedures that Medicare covers.

A licensed agent can help you decide on a Medicare Supplement plan option that works for you. Call today to speak with a licensed agent and compare the Medigap plans that are available where you live.