With the cold and flu season upon us, it's time to think about getting your shots to lower your risk of disease and illness. Medicare will pay for an annual flu shot and pneumonia vaccine if you need one.
Flu and pneumonia shots have been a covered benefit for Medicare beneficiaries for many years. Congress realized how important these shots were and excluded them from any beneficiary deductible or coinsurance liability. That means they are paid at 100% of the Medicare approved amount. In addition, you don't need a doctor's referral to get these vaccines.
The flu shot can be received once a year in either the fall or winter, while you may only need one pneumonia shot in your lifetime. Your doctor can tell you more about whether you need one. You might be at risk for pneumonia if you:
- Are age 65 or older
- Have a chronic illness, such as heart or lung disease or diabetes
- Have a weak immune system
The vaccine is safe, it works, and people who get the shot are protected against almost all the bacteria that cause this illness and other pneumococcal diseases as well. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your health risks and need for these shots.