My doctor mentioned something about Medicare not covering my procedure. How do I find out for sure before I get stuck with a bill?
Answered by 15 licensed agents
Answered by Larry Dalton on April 3, 2025
Broker Licensed in OK & TX
Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on April 16, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states
Answered by William Lawler on May 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states
Answered by Deborah Lee on May 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in WI, FL, IA & MN
Answered by Steven Bleicher on April 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ
If Medicare is primary, get specific procedure codes from provider’s biller and contact Medicare;
If Medicare Advantage, you can discuss with your carrier reason for denial and determine what further info needs to be submitted by your doctor
Answered by Nancy Suozzi-Vidal on June 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY & CT
Here's how you can verify if Medicare will cover your upcoming procedure:
1. Check Medicare's Website:
Go to Medicare.gov's "What's Covered" tool and search for your specific procedure.
You can also download the "What's Covered" mobile app for easy access on the go.
2. Talk to your Doctor or their Billing Department:
Your doctor's office might have experience with similar procedures and can offer insights.
They can also clarify the medical coding for the procedure, which affects coverage.
3. Contact Medicare Directly:
Call 1-800-MEDICARE and explain your situation.
They can provide information on Medicare coverage and your potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN):
If the procedure is similar to something you've had in the past, look at your past MSNs.
This can give you an idea of how similar procedures were covered previously.
5. Consider a Pre-Authorization:
In some cases, you can request a pre-authorization from Medicare to confirm coverage before the procedure.
This can provide peace of mind and avoid unexpected bills later.
Important Note:
Keep records of all your inquiries, including names of representatives you spoke with and dates of contact.
If your doctor suggests that Medicare might not cover the procedure, they may ask you to sign an Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), acknowledging that you'll be responsible for the cost if Medicare denies the claim.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, consult your plan materials or contact your plan directly to confirm coverage and cost-sharing details.
Answered by Fred Manas on May 23, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
You can find many answers for Medicare supplement plans in the Medicare guide and website
Medicare advantage plans require you to be contact your insurance company
Answered by Gary Henderson on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states
Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on April 11, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states
Answered by Deborah Webster on May 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in Ia & SC
Answered by Sonya Chandler on May 21, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, AZ, FL & 5 other states
Answered by Wild Bill Anderson on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA
Answered by Robert Barco on April 22, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
Answered by Melanie Blackston on May 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, GA & NC
Answered by Britania James on April 17, 2025
Broker Licensed in AL, CA, FL & 7 other states
Tags: Advice for Seniors Coverage
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