With flu season right around the corner, let's think of the best ways to protect ourselves from illnesses such as the flu and pneumonia. Did you know that Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) typically covers one flu shot per flu season and the pneumonia vaccination? Also, there are other vaccinations that you could get, like the Hepatitis B, Shingles, and the Tdap Vaccinations.
Flu Vaccination:
In recent studies, between 71 - 85% of deaths associated with the flu have occurred in people over the age of 65. This goes to show that the flu is a huge threat for people 65 and older, but getting vaccinated can help drop the risk of contracting the flu and maybe even save your life. It is better to get the flu shot as soon as possible. Early fall is best because it can take about two weeks for the antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu. Medicare Part B covers the flu vaccination, but always check with your doctor to make sure they accept the assignment.
Pneumonia Vaccination:
According to the CDC, adults 65 years and older are at the greatest risk of serious pneumococcal infections that could possibly lead to death. There are two different pneumonia shots available in the United States which can protect you and your loved ones: Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13 or Prevnar 13) and Pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPSV23 or Pneumovax 23). The good news is that both pneumococcal vaccines are covered by your Medicare Part B when they are administered at least 12 months apart. Make sure to check with your doctor to see if they accept the assignment before you decide where to receive the vaccinations.
Hepatitis B Vaccination:
If you are suffering from a condition that has lowered your resistance to infection and you are at high or medium risk for contracting Hepatitis B, Medicare Part B will cover this vaccination. Check with your doctor to see if you are eligible and ask them if they accept the assignment. If they do, it is in your best interested to take advantage and get vaccinated right away.
Shingles Vaccination:
Even though Medicare Part A and Part B does NOT cover the shingles vaccination, it might be covered by your Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D). Check with your Medicare prescription drug plan carrier to see if it is covered. Getting vaccinated from shingles could protect you from months and maybe even years of pain and suffering.
Tdap Vaccination:
Tdap stands for Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (whooping cough). This vaccination isn’t covered by Medicare Part A or Part B, but your Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) may cover it. The CDC recommends that individuals get the vaccination if they have close contact with babies younger than 12 months and/or after you have experienced a severe cut or burn. Protecting yourself from these serious and possibly life threatening diseases is always a plus! When taking steps to ensure you are a healthier you, I have a saying I like to use; “carpe diem”. So today, make a positive step forward in protecting yourself from potential preventative illnesses and Seize the Day! I hope after reading the MWG Senior Services blog, you call your doctor right away to schedule your vaccinations or check with your local pharmacist to see if they can administer the immunizations. For more Medicare tips and education please visit our blog again soon! MWG Senior Services is here to help you navigate the Medicare maze! Please give us a call at 877-759-5760 or feel free to email us at seniorservices@morganwhite.com.
