Does Medicare Cover Flu Shots?
Did you know that the CDC estimates that the flu affects between 9 million and 49 million each year? Over 200,00 people are hospitalized and annual deaths range from 3,000 to 49,000! The flu vaccine is often recommended as the first and best way to prevent the flu virus and its serious complications. But, will Medicare pay for your flu vaccine? Does Medicare cover flu shots?
Does Medicare Cover Flu Shots?
The short answer is YES. If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you will be covered for one Medicare flu shot each year during the fall or winter seasons. Original Medicare will cover your flu shot at 100% of the Medicare-approved amount. Your shot mush be administered by a participating provider.
Additional flu shots may be covered by Medicare if considered Medically necessary from your doctor or provider.
| Type of Vaccine | Coverage Rules | Medicare Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza shot | Medicare Part B | Medicare recommends and pays for a single shot each flu season. Additional flu shots may be covered if they are determined to be medically necessary. |
IMPORTANT: Your Health care provider or physician may sometimes recommend that you receive medical services more frequently than Medicare covers. Sometimes they may recommend a service that Medicare will not cover. When this happens, you may be responsible to pay for some or all of these additional medical costs. Make sure to ask your provider questions so you know and understand why your doctor is recommends these services (and if Medicare will pay for them.)
does medicare pay for flu shots?
Yes. You will pay nothing for your influenza vaccination as long as your physician or other qualified health care provider accepts Assignment & administers the shot. Medicare Part B pays for your flu shot. This means your shot will cost you nothing (no Deductible or Coinsurance).
medicare flu shot FAQ
💡 Your next step: Most preventive care is fully covered — but hospital stays, specialists, and procedures are not. See how a Medicare Supplement plan protects you from major out-of-pocket costs.
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Written by Michael Quinn
Licensed Broker, REMEDIGAP Founder
Fact Checked by Joann Quinn
Chief Compliance Officer
As a licensed insurance broker, REMEDIGAP upholds the principles of integrity in our editorial standards and ensures transparency in how we receive compensation from our insurance partners.