Dialysis Treatments and Medicare

 

Dialysis can be a very important treatment for many people with a medical condition and this is why Medicare takes special steps to assist you with the treatment.  With the Medicare coverage that you have it is possible that much of the dialysis treatment you need will be covered by your policy.  This doesn’t mean that you won’t pay anything, but it could save you a lot of money.

Inpatient dialysis treatments: Medicare Part A covers dialysis if you’re admitted to the hospital for special care.  This means that you need to be in the hospital and there is no other option for you to get treatment and make yourself better.

Outpatient maintenance dialysis treatments: Medicare Part B covers a bundle of dialysis services if you get routine maintenance dialysis from a Medicare-certified dialysis facility. For example, Medicare Part B covers ESRD related laboratory tests, and medications (like erythropoiesis stimulating agents), but excludes ESRD-related medications with only an oral form of administration (like capsules, tablets, or liquids), which are covered only under Part D.

In 2011, your obligation is to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.