Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) typically does not cover adult diapers or incontinence pads for use outside of nursing homes. With Original Medicare coverage, you will typically pay the full price of adult diapers and incontinence supplies out of pocket.
Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may give an allowance for certain over-the-counter (OTC) items, which may include adult diapers in some cases.
Does Medicare cover incontinence supplies?
Unless you reside in a nursing home, Original Medicare does not typically cover adult diapers and incontinence supplies.
Adult diapers can be used for many different medical reasons, including many types of urinary incontinence.
Because incontinence pads and adult diapers are not designed to withstand repeated use, however, they don’t meet the definition of what qualifies as durable medical equipment (DME) that Medicare will cover.
In some cases, a urinary collection and retention device that a doctor orders you to use for permanent urinary incontinence may be covered by Medicare as a prosthetic device.
Talk to your doctor to learn more about your options for adult diapers and incontinence supplies.
How much do adult diapers cost with Medicare Advantage?
Since adult diapers are not typically covered by Medicare, you will likely have to pay 100 percent of the costs for most incontinence supplies out of pocket.
Medicare Advantage plans may offer allowances for over-the-counter supplies
Medicare Advantage plans are sold by private insurance companies as an alternative to Original Medicare.
Every Medicare Advantage plan must cover everything that Part A and Part B covers, and most Medicare Advantage plans cover prescription drugs.
Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer an allowance for over-the-counter supplies. Depending on your plan, you may be able to use such an allowance to help cover the costs of adult diapers. Not all plans offer over-the-counter allowances.
A licensed insurance agent can help you compare the benefits offered by Medicare Advantage plans in your area.
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