Why enrolling in Medicare Part D is important

on Jan 25, 2024

The Medicare and You handbook, states that Medicare Part B will cover vaccines to prevent:

-- Influenza (the flu) currently the seasonal flu shot (See page 42.)

-- Hepatitis B (if you are at medium or high risk) (page 42)

-- Pneumococcal shots (Pneumonia) (page 48)

-- COVID-19 vaccines and testing (page 37)

Under “Important” on page 50, the handbook says that, for shots not covered under Medicare Part B, Part D “generally covers all other recommended adult immunizations to prevent illness (like shingles, tetanus, diphteria, pertussis, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)) at no cost to you.” The handbook advises you to, if your shot is not on the Medicare list, ask for a coverage exception and to talk with your doctor about which immunizations are right for you.

Part B will cover other immunizations, but only if you are exposed to a disease or condition, such as a tetanus shot if injured by a rusty nail or rabies if bitten by a dog or strange animal.

It amazes me how Medicare can make a simple medical issue such as getting a vaccine so complicated. Remember, with Medicare it’s what you don’t know WILL hurt you!

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Toni King is an author and columnist on Medicare and health insurance issues. She has spent nearly 30 years as a top sales leader in the field. If you have a Medicare question, email info@tonisays.com or call 832-519-8664. Toni’s books and her newsletter are available at www.tonisays.com. Toni’s new Confused about Medicare video series is now available for purchase at www.tonisays.com, as are Toni’s Medicare Survival Guide and discounted bundle package.