Medicare Coverage of Orthotics and Prosthetics

What It Is

Orthotic and prosthetic devices for replacement or support of a body part

What's Covered

Medicare Part B covers orthotic and prosthetic devices, including artificial limbs and eyes; braces for arm, leg, back, and neck; and breast prostheses and related supplies following a mastectomy.

Medicare Part B covers orthopedic shoes if they're a medically necessary part of a Medicare-covered orthotic leg brace. Prosthetic shoes are covered by Medicare Part B if they're an integral part of a prosthesis for patients with a partial foot amputation.

If you have a Medicare Part C Medicare Advantage plan: Medicare Part C Medicare Advantage plans, also called Medicare Advantage plans, must cover everything that's included in original Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. But sometimes a Part C plan covers more, with extra services or an expanded amount of coverage. (Co-payments for Part C plans may also be different than those for Part A or Part B.) To find out whether your plan provides extra coverage or requires different co-payments for orthotics and prosthetics, contact the plan directly.

What Medicare Pays

Medicare Part B pays 80 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for covered orthotics and prosthetics.

Important: Regardless of the rules regarding any particular type of care, in order for Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, or a Medicare Part C plan to provide coverage, the care must meet two basic requirements:

• The care must be "medically necessary." This means that it must be ordered or prescribed by a licensed physician or other authorized medical provider, and that Medicare (or a Medicare Part C plan) agrees that the care is necessary and proper. For help getting your care covered, see FAQ: How Can I Increase the Odds That Medicare Will Cover My Medical Service?

• The care must be performed or delivered by a healthcare provider who participates in Medicare.