Getting the seasonal flu shot is an easy way to reduce your risk of contracting the flu. And, depending on your Medicare plan, the flu shot could be covered at no cost to you.Â
Medicare Part B, a component of Original Medicare, covers 100% of the costs of seasonal flu shots once a year. As long as you are eligible for and enrolled in Medicare Part B, your flu shot will be covered. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, the flu shot is still covered, but you may be required to receive the shot from a Medicare-approved in-network provider. In this article, we’ll help you understand Medicare coverage for the flu shot so you can stay protected during flu season.
Medicare Part A Coverage (Hospital Insurance)
Medicare Part A covers most inpatient hospitals, skilled nursing homes, home health and hospice care. The type of care that Medicare Part A may cover at these facilities includes lab tests, surgery, medical supplies, certain therapies and more.
Medicare Part B Coverage (Medical Insurance)
Medicare Part B covers routine covers routine doctor visits, including specialists to treat your medical conditions. It also covers preventative services, which is healthcare you receive to prevent illnesses, like getting a flu shot.
Why Medicare beneficiaries should consider getting a flu shot.
Just because the flu is a common illness doesn’t mean it can’t be severe. Even run-of-the-mill cases of the flu can lead to hospitalization and the chance of developing complications like pneumonia. Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to prevent catching the seasonal flu. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that everyone 6 months of age or older get the flu shot, and especially those 65 and older, as they have the highest risk of complications from the flu.
When should I get a flu shot?
The flu vaccine season usually begins August 1 and ends July 31 of the following year. The CDC recommends that you receive your annual flu shot by the end of October of each year, as flu season typically peaks between December and February. Depending on your risk, you may require a series of two flu shots based on your doctor’s recommendation. In this case, Medicare Part B will cover both shots.
Have questions about your Medicare Advantage coverage? Let SelectQuote help.
Getting the flu shot is an easy way to protect your health, especially when it’s included in your Medicare coverage. Whether you have questions about your current Medicare plan or want to update coverage to include preventive services like flu shots, SelectQuote can help. We can compare plan details and rates for you in just minutes, saving you time and helping you find the right coverage for your needs.
