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by HIS Breast Cancer Awareness

Does Medicare Cover Cancer Treatment?

What cancer treatment expenses does Medicare cover?

The costs of treating cancer add up fast. If you have Medicare, many of those expenses are included in your coverage.

This article will answer basic questions about how to find out how much you will owe for your cancer treatment if you have Medicare.

If you receive a serious cancer diagnosis, you may want to call the Medicare Health Line at 800-633-4227. This line is available 24/7 and can give you specific answers about anticipating your costs. You can also ask more specifics regarding Male Breast Cancer.

When does Medicare cover cancer treatment?

Medicare covers cancer treatment prescribed by a doctor who accepts Medicare.

Medicare pays 80 percent of what your care provider bills for prescribed, approved cancer treatments. You’re responsible for 20 percent of the billed amount until you hit your annual deductible.

Some doctor’s visits and procedures must meet unique criteria to be approved by Medicare.

For example, if you need surgery, Medicare will pay for you to consult with a surgical oncologist and another surgical oncologist for a second opinion. Medicare will pay for you to get a third opinion, but only if the first and second doctors don’t agree.

If you have Medicare, it covers cancer treatment no matter how old you are. If you have Medicare Part D, prescription drugs that are a part of your cancer treatment are also covered.

What parts of Medicare cover cancer treatment?

Medicare is a federal program in the United States, governed by several sets of laws. These policies are the “parts” of Medicare. Different parts of Medicare cover different aspects of your cancer treatment.

Medicare Part A

Medicare Part A covers hospital care. Most people don’t pay a monthly premium for Medicare Part A.

Cancer care and services part A covers includes: