Opioids are strong pain-reducing medications that
Prescription opioids include:
- oxycodone (Oxycontin)
- hydrocodone (Vicadin)
- morphine
- codeine
- fentanyl
It is important to note that opioids can be addictive, and people should only take them under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs to take at home, including opioids. Medicare-approved private insurance companies provide Part D plans. Each company can set its own drug list (formulary) that shows what medications it covers.
People with Original Medicare (parts A and B) can purchase a stand-alone Part D plan. Many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include prescription drug coverage (Part D).
Medicare Part A may cover opioid medications that a person receives while receiving inpatient hospital care. Part B may cover medications that a person receives in an outpatient clinic setting.
Medicare Part B covers various services that can help manage pain and related issues. These services include:
- acupuncture for chronic lower back pain
- chiropractic services
- depression screenings
- alcohol misuse screenings and counseling
- mental health and substance disorder services
- behavioral health integration services
- occupational therapy
- physical therapy
- opioid use disorder treatment
Some Medicare Part D plans also offer programs like medication therapy management and drug management to help people use opioids more safely.
Medicare resources
For more resources to help guide you through the complex world of medical insurance, visit our Medicare hub.
Medicare Part B covers opioid use disorder treatment that a person receives from a doctor or other healthcare professional, or through a more comprehensive opioid treatment program.
If a person receives these services through a Medicare-registered opioid treatment program, they will pay nothing for the treatment. If they receive it through a doctor or other healthcare professional, they are responsible for the 20% Part B coinsurance.