Medicare Coverage and Reimbursement for Vaccines
Medicare covers most vaccines. Some are covered by Medicare Part B, and some are covered by Medicare Prescription Drug plans (Part D).
Getting the vaccines you need is one of the most important things you can do for your health and for the health of those around you. Vaccines are your first line of defense against a number of infectious diseases. If you don’t get sick, then you can’t infect your loved ones, your friends, or others in your community. Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you.
Except for vaccines covered under Part B, Part D plans cover all commercially available vaccines as long as the vaccine is reasonable and necessary to prevent illness. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 made vaccines covered under Part D free. You no longer need to meet your deducible or make copays when you get a vaccine.
When your former employer covers out-of-pocket expenses, vaccinations covered under your Part D plan are considered a medical expense and are reimbursable, even if your former employer doesn't allow reimbursement of other Part D expenses. Contact your insurance carrier if you would like to find out how a vaccine is covered.
*Most Medicare Advantage Plans include Part D coverage.