Medications Covered Under Medicare Part B

If Lieutenant Columbo were investigating Medicare, he’d scratch his head, turn back at the door, and say: “Just one more thing…” ...and that thing would be:“Did you know not all medications are covered under Medicare Part D?”

That’s right. Some medications are actually covered under Medicare Part B — and if you don’t know which ones, you could be paying more than you need to.

🕵️‍♂️ What’s the Difference Between Part B and Part D Coverage?

Here’s the simple breakdown:

• Part D is what most people think of for prescription drugs — pills you pick up at the pharmacy.

• Part B is for drugs that are usually administered in a doctor’s office or clinic — think injections or infusions.

If Columbo were here, he’d pull out a pad and say: “Now let me get this straight… you’re telling me I don’t always need my Part D card to get my medicine?”

Exactly. Let’s take a closer look.

💉 Medications Typically Covered Under Part B

Here are some common examples:

1. Injectable or Infused Drugs

• Given by a healthcare professional (not self-administered)

• Examples: Chemotherapy drugs, immunosuppressants after a transplant, certain osteoporosis treatments

2. Vaccines Covered by Part B (Not D)

• Flu shot

• Pneumonia vaccine

• Hepatitis B vaccine (for high-risk individuals)

• COVID-19 vaccine

(Pro tip: Most other vaccines, like shingles, are under Part D.)

3. Medications Used with Durable Medical Equipment

• Like nebulizer medications

• IV medications given through a pump you use at home

4. Certain Anti-Cancer and Anti-Nausea Medications

• If they’re part of a Medicare-approved treatment plan and administered properly, they may fall under Part B

🧾 Why Does This Matter?

Because if a medication is covered under Part B, it’s not billed to your Part D plan — and that could:

• Lower your out-of-pocket costs

• Help you avoid hitting the Part D coverage gap (“donut hole”)

• Prevent delays in access to treatment

Plus, Part B drugs may be covered at 80% after your deductible, with a Medigap plan picking up the rest — meaning $0 cost to you in some cases.

🕵️‍♀️ Still Unsure? Let’s Investigate Together.

Not sure how your medication is covered? Or whether a drug should be billed through Part B instead of Part D?

📞 Call Diane Andree at ABC Medicare Plans Broker  631-337-3625

🌐 Diane@ABCMPB.com