People try many different ways to deal with erectile dysfunction. One of the most popular ways, by far, is Viagra. One of the questions that people ask as they get older is whether or not sexual performance drugs are covered under the Medicare plans. In addition to Viagra, Cialis is often highly sought out. The answer for whether or not Medicare covers these types of medications is more complex than most people think.
Does Medicare Cover Viagra?
The base forms of Medicare are Original Medicare, which includes Part A and Part B, and also Medicare Part C. Medicare Part C is also sometimes called Medicare Advantage. Original Medicare does not cover the cost of any prescription drugs, so it does not cover Viagra. It is possible to get other forms and solutions for erectile dysfunction under the Durable Medical Equipment section of Medicare Part B. In these cases, Medicare will cover 80% of the costs, with the patient covering 20% of the costs. Some people do have Medigap plans that cover these other Part B costs. While additional solutions, such as pumps for erectile dysfunction, are covered under Medicare Part B, the plan itself does not cover Viagra.
Medicare Part D is additional insurance coverage that people with Medicare can pay for. This plan covers the costs of prescription drugs. These policies are designed by individual companies, but they do not cover Viagra for ED. Each year, if you’re curious to see whether or not any Medicare Part D drug plans have moved to cover Viagra, contact them for details. Make sure to look at both brand-name medications, as well as generic brands when considering Medicare Part D plans.
In addition to Medicare Parts A through D, there are other supplemental coverage plans that are available. These are called Medigap plans. Medigap plans do not cover Viagra either. None of the Medigap plans cover prescription drugs, as they are designed to cover out-of-pocket expenses. For people looking for pumps that benefit erectile dysfunction, some of the out-of-pocket costs can be covered through Medigap plans.
In some cases, Medicare Advantage Plans, also called Medicare Part C, will cover Viagra. There are very few of these plans, however, that cover name brand Viagra. Keep in mind though that generic Viagra is also available, and some of these plans cover that at little to no cost. Make sure to consider the other drugs you are taking when selecting a plan, however. Having a plan that covers your necessary medications is essential. Compare the medications that you need with the medications that the plans you are considering provide coverage for.
Medicare Coverage For Viagra, Cialis, And Levitra
While there are some cases where these three drugs are covered by Medicare plans in some fashion, most of the time, they are not. This is a vast majority of the time, and research will be needed to see whether or not companies in your area cover generic versions of any of these drugs. Also not covered are anti-anxiety benzodiazepines, drugs that are used for cosmetic purposes, drugs that are prohibitively expensive, and erectile dysfunction medications.
Some plans do cover ED drugs that are prescribed for other purposes. Generic versions of Viagra may be covered because sildenafil, which is the active ingredient in Viagra, is used to treat other things. The generic version of sildenafil can be used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension as an example. Because of this, generic sildenafil can be covered by most Medicare plans. These drugs are only covered, however, if they are prescribed for non-sexual dysfunction reasons.
If you do find a Medicare Advantage Part D plan that covers Viagra, you can expect to pay high costs for the drugs. Also, there will also be restrictions on the number of pills that are covered each month. Other available options include home delivery of brand-name Viagra, which can be done at a lower cost. While Pfizer started this program, insurance is not accepted. People taking advantage of home delivery must not only pay cash but also need to have a prescription from their doctor. There is a savings card available for Viagra as well.
Other Recommendations For Erectile Dysfunction
For people who are experiencing erectile dysfunction, or have impotence of any kind, it is recommended to visit a doctor and get a complete physical done. It is possible that other problems are there and affecting the situation. This can include heart disease, diabetes, and numerous other complications. Some professionals say that the side effects of erectile dysfunction can include headaches, flushing in the face, lightheadedness, nausea, and changes to vision. If you experience these things regularly, a checkup can be useful.
People should also know the risks of using Viagra before taking it. Buying Viagra on the street from unregulated vendors can lead to fake or contaminated pills being purchased, which is a risk. Make sure to purchase any Viagra or alternative erectile dysfunction medications from respected places and do your research. Men who have had a heart attack in the past half-year should not be taking Viagra. Take advantage of the tools here to find Medicare plans that cover all of your needs. Check to make sure your medically necessary prescription drugs are covered first, then check to see if there are programs that cover erectile dysfunction medications second. The resources here can help you find the top Medicare plan to fit your needs.