In brief: 

Medicare now covers coronavirus testing. Medicare also covers coronavirus treatment in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities.

You probably see coronavirus (COVID-19) on the news every day. COVID-19 symptoms are similar to flu and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There is no need to panic over coronavirus. It can be avoided, tested, and the symptoms can be treated. 

Does Medicare cover coronavirus testing? 

Medicare Part B (medical insurance) now covers a test to see if you have coronavirus. A doctor or other health care provider must order it. You pay nothing for Medicare-covered clinical diagnostic laboratory tests, such as the coronavirus test.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you also will be covered for the coronavirus test.  

Does Medicare cover the coronavirus vaccine? 

As of March 10, 2020, there is no coronavirus vaccine. However, your doctor may recommend the flu vaccine, which is covered by Medicare.

The severity of the flu should not be underestimated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates up to 45 million flu illnesses in the current season alone and at least 18,000 flu deaths. According to the CDC, it’s estimated that up to 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people aged 65 and older.

How can I protect myself from coronavirus?

Medicare covers adults over age 65 and those younger than 65 with disabilities or serious health problems.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), data suggests that older adults and persons with underlying health conditions might be at greater risk for severe illness from the coronavirus. People with compromised immune systems may also be extra vulnerable. 

To avoid the coronavirus and other illnesses such as the flu, the CDC recommends: 

• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick,
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth,
• Staying at home when you are sick,
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash,
• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Will Medicare cover me if I get the coronavirus? 

If you get the coronavirus, Medicare will cover your care as if you were sick with any other illness. The CDC says that “supportive care to relieve symptoms” is the current medical treatment for coronavirus.

Medicare Part A will generally cover your inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility. Medicare Part B will generally cover your outpatient care. According to the World Health Organization, Medicare Part D will generally cover any prescription medication you must take, although there is no specific medicine recommended to treat the new coronavirus. You may wish to have a Medicare Supplement plan to cover out-of-pocket costs associated with your care. 

This article is for general information and should not be relied on as medical advice. Check with a medical professional for medical advice.