Does Medicare Cover Tetanus Shots?
No, Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare) do not cover tetanus shots.
Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans may cover tetanus shots.
Medicare Part D drug coverage typically covers many shots and vaccines that are commercially available. Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D drug coverage.
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Speak with a licensed insurance agent
A licensed insurance agent can help you find plans available in your area that cover tetanus shots. To speak with a licensed agent, call TTY Users: 711, 24/7.
How does Medicare cover tetanus vaccines?
Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare) do not cover the tetanus vaccination for prevention of infection. This means that any Medicare coverage of the Tdap vaccine will come from:
- A Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage
- A standalone Medicare Part D plan
Both types of plans are sold by private insurance companies, and the specific benefits and availability may vary based on where you live.
- Learn about Medicare Advantage plans in your state
- Learn about Medicare Part D plans in your state
The Tdap vaccine is the booster shot for adults and adolescents. It is recommended every 10 years for all adults with prior immunization against tetanus.
If you are exposed to tetanus through an injury, Part B may provide coverage for the tetanus immunization.
How much does a Tdap shot cost with Medicare?
Because tetanus shot coverage may be provided by a private Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, your costs may vary.
Depending on your plan, you could potentially face out-of-pocket costs or restrictions such as:
- Coinsurance or copayments
- Deductible
- Plan network restrictions
We recommend speaking with your plan carrier directly for specific cost and coverage information.
Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional benefits
Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative plan to Original Medicare that are sold by private insurance companies.
Most Medicare Advantage may provide coverage for prescription drugs, and all Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least the same benefits that are provided by Original Medicare.
Call to speak with a licensed insurance agent who can help you determine your eligibility to enroll and compare Medicare Advantage plans in your area that may include prescription drug coverage, which may include tetanus shots.
Compare Medicare Advantage plans in your area
Compare PlansOr call TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.
About the author
Christian Worstell is a licensed insurance agent and a Senior Staff Writer for MedicareAdvantage.com. He is passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of Medicare and understand their coverage options.
His work has been featured in outlets such as Vox, MSN, and The Washington Post, and he is a frequent contributor to health care and finance blogs.
Christian is a graduate of Shippensburg University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He currently lives in Raleigh, NC.
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