Using Medicare to Pay for Your Ostomy Supplies

Wondering how Medicare covers the ostomy supplies you need? Here’s a quick go-to guide for Medicare coverage, how many supplies you may be eligible to receive every 30 days, and what to look for in a Medicare-accredited ostomy supply company.

Medicare Coverage for Ostomy Supplies

Millions of Americans rely on Medicare for essential medical supplies, including ostomy products. Medicare Part B typically covers a portion of the overall cost of each order (80%), so there is usually an out-of-pocket cost.

However, if you have a Medicare supplemental insurance plan or a replacement plan that covers 100%, you may be able to get your ostomy supplies without paying out of pocket.

Either way, using your insurance plan is less costly than paying cash for your supplies. You may have to consider supply limits within a 30- or 90-day range that must be followed to have Medicare pay its portion.

What Ostomy Supplies Does Medicare Cover?

Depending on your prescription and individual needs, some of the ostomy products you may be able to receive while insured by Medicare may include:

Medicare requires a prescription and a doctor’s progress notes in order to cover this type of medical supply. However, you can rest easy when you choose 180 Medical, a Medicare-accredited provider, knowing that we will work hard to obtain all the documentation Medicare requires to ensure full compliance with their guidelines.

Other Insurance Coverage for Ostomy Supplies

180 Medical is also in-network with state Medicaid programs. Additionally, we accept a wide range of private insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tricare, United Healthcare, Cigna, and more.

However, because each state’s Medicaid program has its own guidelines for what it covers and how much, it would be hard to list all supplies and their allowable and covered amounts. This is the same for private insurance plans.

Top 3 Factors of a Reliable Ostomy Supplies Provider

1. Specialization in ostomy supplies

First, choose a company that specializes in ostomy supplies. It’s advantageous to have a supplier that knows its products inside and out. Unlike companies that provide medical supplies of all kinds, 180 Medical has Ostomy Specialists who are rigorously trained to meet the needs of our customers.

Our ostomy specialists understand ostomy procedures, our product line, including accessories, and all the latest technology. Plus, we have a wide selection of high-quality products compared to the limited inventories at local pharmacies.

2. A Medicare-accredited, ACHC-accredited provider

You want a supplier that operates with integrity and always does the right thing. 180 Medical is proudly accredited and contracted with Medicare and the ACHC (Accreditation Commission for Health Care).

We are also contracted with most state Medicaid plans and a wide variety of private insurance plans that continue to grow.

3. Will handle billing your insurance for you

You don’t want to deal with the hassle of turning in claims for your products for repayment. Quality ostomy suppliers like 180 Medical will take the time to interface with your physician and your insurer to make sure you are getting the products you need to be covered.

With these tips, you may be on the way to getting quality ostomy supplies. To find out if Medicare will pay for your supplies or if you have other questions, call us at 180 Medical. Our friendly Ostomy Specialists are ready to help you.