Guide to Medicare Coverage for Incontinence Supplies
Original Medicare doesn't cover absorbent incontinence supplies like adult diapers, underwear and pads.
But Medicare Advantage plans often have extra perks and you might be able to find one that covers incontinence supplies. Original Medicare does cover catheters and several treatments for bladder issues.
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Does Medicare cover incontinence supplies?
Original Medicare doesn't cover adult diapers, pads or other absorbent incontinence products.
If you only have Original Medicare, which means Medicare Parts A and B, you'll have to pay for these products yourself. That's because Medicare doesn't classify incontinence supplies as medical treatment or equipment. Instead, they're considered personal hygiene products.
Medicare Advantage plans and incontinence supplies
Medicare Advantage plans, also called Part C plans, might cover incontinence supplies. That's because Medicare Advantage plans often include extra perks outside of the regular medical coverage.
But Medicare Advantage plans aren't right for everyone. Picking a plan just because it covers incontinence products could leave you with high bills if the plan doesn't meet your other medical needs. Instead, you should first look for a plan that fits all your medical needs. Then, if the plan covers your supplies, you can view it as a helpful perk.
Does Medicare cover treatments for incontinence?
Medicare covers many different treatments for incontinence.
Some common treatments that Medicare covers include:
- Medications: If you have a Medicare Part D plan, you'll likely have coverage for a variety of incontinence medications.
- Catheters: If you need a catheter to help drain your bladder, you can get them through Medicare. The number you can get depends on what kind of catheter you need and your doctor's recommendations.
- Pelvic floor stimulation: Medicare covers pelvic floor stimulation treatment, but only the kind that doesn't involve an implant. And you only have coverage if you have tried pelvic floor muscle exercises and they haven't worked.
- Botox: Medicare covers Botox for incontinence, but only if a type of medication called an anticholinergic hasn't worked for you or you can't take it.
- Sacral nerve stimulation: Medicare covers this treatment for overactive bladder, urge incontinence and urinary retention problems, which can make it difficult to empty your bladder.
If your doctor says you need surgery for incontinence, Medicare might cover it. But it depends on the type of surgery, so it's best to talk to your doctor and check with Medicare first.
Not all incontinence treatments are covered. If your doctor recommends a particular treatment, it's a good idea to check if Medicare covers it before you get it done. You can use the Medicare Coverage Database to find info about coverage for specific treatments.
How to get cheap or free incontinence supplies
Diaper banks and community programs might be able to help you get cheap or free incontinence supplies.
You can use the National Diaper Bank Network to find a diaper bank near you. While most diaper banks focus on products for babies, they may also have adult diapers and other incontinence products. You might also be able to get help through a community program in your area.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicare cover adult diapers?
No, Medicare doesn't cover adult diapers or other incontinence products. Medicare does cover several incontinence treatments, though. If you have problems with incontinence, talk to your doctor about treatment options. You can check the Medicare Coverage Database to check if Medicare covers your treatment.
Why doesn't Medicare pay for incontinence supplies?
Medicare considers absorbent incontinence products like adult diapers and pads to be personal hygiene products rather than medical treatment or medical equipment. But Medicare usually covers treatments for incontinence, like catheters and surgery.
Are incontinence supplies covered by Medicaid?
Medicaid covers some incontinence products in most states. However, Medicaid coverage changes depending on where you live, so it's always best to check with your state program to make sure.
Sources
Sources for this article include Medicare.gov, the Medicare Coverage Database, the National Association for Continence and the National Diaper Bank Network.
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