Dear Arnold, 

Yes, Medicare covers vaccines. Most vaccines are covered under Part D, the prescription drug benefit, but some are paid for by Part B.  Part D plans include most commercially available vaccines on their formularies, but it’s a good idea to confirm that the ones your doctor is recommending are included on your particular plan. 

Certain vaccinations are always covered by Part B: 

• Influenza (flu) shots, including both the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1NI (swine flu) vaccine 
• Pneumococcal (pneumonia) shots 
• Hepatitis B shots 
• COVID-19 vaccine 

Part B also covers vaccines after you have been exposed to a dangerous virus or disease. For example, Part B will cover a tetanus shot if you step on a rusty nail, or a rabies shot if you are bitten by a dog. 

Medicare covers all vaccines that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), an independent government body, recommends for adults. Medicare covers these vaccines without cost-sharing, so at no cost to you. This includes some vaccines that you might need before you travel outside the US. Vaccines that are not recommended by ACIP may be included on your plan’s formulary, but your deductible and copay will apply.   

To avoid billing issues, make sure that your doctor or pharmacy administering the vaccines bills the appropriate part of Medicare. When you get a vaccine at your doctor’s office, ask your doctor to contact your Part D plan first to find out how they can bill your Part D plan directly. 

Hope this helps! 

-Marci