Whether you want to reinforce immunization you received as a child or prepare yourself for the next seasonal flu, vaccines play a crucial role in fighting diseases that can otherwise prevent you from aging well. Fortunately, Medicare’s coverage of preventive services helps you keep healthy as it pays for four vaccines.
Here are the three important vaccines that Medicare covers for seniors:
Influenza Vaccines
The flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that generally begins in October and may go as late as March or even April. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. According to the CDC, children and older adults are at high risk of catching the flu because of weakened immunity. This is why seniors need to get the flu shot designed specifically for older adults. Your Medicare Part B covers the flu vaccine which you can get once a year, free-of-cost. If you have Medicare Advantage, you may need to seek an in-network physician or doctor to get the shot. Make sure you are clear about the flu vaccination with your Medicare Advantage agency at the time of enrollment.
Shingles Vaccines
Shingle is a viral infection that results in a painful skin rash. The condition is caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox; however, it’s less contagious than chickenpox. Research indicates that the age-related weakening of immunity in older adults may trigger the awakening of the inactive chickenpox virus. Also, one in three adults above 60 gets shingles in the US, which is why seniors must get a shingles vaccination. Medicare Advantage that includes prescription coverage or Medicare Part D drugs plans provide coverage for shingles. However, there is usually an ‘out’-of pocket’ expense. It’s best to discuss ‘out-of-pocket’ costs with your Medicare-certified agency or medical doctor.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Pneumococcal diseases are a group of infections that affect your organs and bloodstream. Some examples of Pneumococcal diseases are pneumonia, meningitis, bacteremia and many others. According to studies, more than 18,000 adults above 65 lose their lives to Pneumococcal diseases. However, vaccines help combat these diseases effectively. Medicare Part B provides a free-of-cost pneumococcal vaccine whereas Medicare Advantage requires you to seek your in-network healthcare provider and Original Medicare requires you to consult a physician or healthcare provider who takes Medicare assignment.
Bottom Line
If you want to protect yourself against diseases that can impact your old age, enroll in Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare plan with help from Medicare Agency in Escondido. If you face difficulty choosing the right plan best-suited to your health needs, get in touch with us today. We will listen to you, understand your health needs and after a deep analysis, we will come up with the right plan for you.
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