One of the most common and routine annual vaccinations is the flu shot. It’s important to get it to protect ourselves from complications with the influenza virus, especially since the virus tends to change and mutate.  

If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you are likely wondering whether flu shots are covered by Medicare. So let’s dive in.

Does Medicare pay for flu shots? 

Yes, Medicare does cover flu shots as they are an important part of preventative care to keep you safe during the flu season. It is also perfectly safe to get your flu vaccine at the same time as your COVID-19 booster, which is also covered by Medicare.

Does Medicare Part B cover flu shots? 

Under Medicare Part B, you can get the services and supplies needed to treat and diagnose any medical conditions. Part B also covers preventative services like flu shots to prevent and detect illnesses and diseases. They are covered at no cost to you if received at a Medicare facility. So yes, Medicare Part B does cover flu shots.

Does Medicare Part A cover flu shots? 

With Original Medicare, you’ll get coverage for flu shots under Part B. While Medicare Part A covers a lot of much-needed and high-priority services, it does not cover preventative care like flu shots.

If you do not qualify for Medicare or have supplemental coverage through separate insurance, you will have to consult your plan to see coverage options.  

Medicare Advantage Plans, or Plan C, cover 100% of the Medicare-approved amount of the cost for your annual flu shot.  

Are flu shots free with Medicare? 

Yes, flu shots are free with Medicare Part B. The coverage options for this vaccination fall under preventative health care.

Importance of getting flu shots

Getting your flu shot is an important part of protecting yourself during flu season. For seniors, this preventative care is even more important. Here are a few reasons to stay on top of your vaccinations: 

• Seniors with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes are at a higher risk for developing complications from the flu. The flu shot reduces the risk of contracting the flu and helps prevent complications; 
• Seniors have weakened immune systems leading to a further risk of contracting the flu;
• CDC estimates that 70-85% of seasonal flu-related deaths occur in seniors and older adults;
• The CDC also estimates that 50-70% of hospitalizations from the flu are for seniors and older adults.  

The added risk associated with age and age-related illnesses like asthma, COPD, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses as well as a weakened immune system is reason enough to stay on top of the flu shots. The flu changes and mutates which means the vaccine will help to protect you against the latest strain of the influenza virus.  

Does Medicare pay for flu shots at pharmacies? 

With the highly contagious nature of the flu, it makes sense to have the flu shot available in many places that are convenient and easily accessible. This is why when you go to the pharmacy, you’ll often see signs advertising the availability of flu shots on location. You do not need to go to a doctor to get a flu shot in most cases. So the answer is yes, Medicare will cover flu shots at local pharmacies!

Does Medicare cover flu shots at CVS? 

Luckily, CVS does accept Medicare for immunizations like the flu shot. This makes it especially easy to walk in and get protected during flu season to prevent complications from the illness. So long as you are covered by Medicare Part B, you won’t have to pay for any of the costs of the shot.  

Does Walgreens accept Medicare for flu shots? 

Like CVS, Walgreens pharmacies are very popular and common in many towns and cities. This makes it a great location to get your flu shot. Fortunately, just like CVS, Walgreens accepts Original Medicare coverage for the cost of the flu vaccine.

Conclusion 

Original Medicare coverage involves multiple plans. Under Part B of Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C), you will be able to receive the flu shot at no cost to you. Many pharmacies including Walgreens and CVS accept Medicare coverage for the flu shot. If you need advice about Medicare coverage, consider Hella Health for valuable information about health insurance as you age.