Medicare and Mesothelioma

Part A generally covers inpatient hospital stays, some skilled nursing care, hospice and some home health services. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, many scans and drugs given by infusion in a clinic, such as many chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments. Part D covers prescription drugs you take at home, including some oral cancer medicines. Medicare Advantage plans, also called Part C, combine these benefits through private insurers and often have networks and prior authorization rules. Coverage details and costs change, so confirm current rules with Medicare or your plan.

Original Medicare generally requires you to pay deductibles and coinsurance, and Part B coinsurance on expensive infusions can add up quickly. Medigap supplement policies can cover many of these costs, but enrollment rules and medical underwriting vary by state and timing. Medicare Advantage plans have yearly out-of-pocket limits for covered services, yet may restrict which specialists and centers you can use. People with limited income may qualify for Medicaid or Medicare Savings Programs, and Extra Help can lower Part D drug costs. A State Health Insurance Assistance Program counselor can explain options for free.

Before choosing or changing plans, make sure the mesothelioma specialists and centers you want to use accept your coverage. Original Medicare is accepted by most doctors and hospitals nationwide, which can matter if you need to travel for care. Medicare Advantage plans may limit coverage outside their network except in emergencies. Call both the plan and the treatment center to confirm. If you already have coverage and discover a network problem, ask about exceptions, special enrollment periods or other options.

1. 1

   Check which Medicare parts you have and whether you also have a supplement or drug plan.

2. 2

   Confirm that your chosen mesothelioma specialists accept your specific Medicare coverage.

3. 3

   Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program for free, unbiased plan counseling.

4. 4

   Ask about Extra Help or Medicare Savings Programs if your income is limited.