Does My Medicare Cover a Shingles/Zostavax Vaccine?

August 20, 2018 | Debby Jesser

Two very important questions that many people have asked us is: “Does Medicare Cover a Shingles/Zostavavax Vaccine?” and “If so, how expensive would the shot be?” Good news- we have a plethora of information about shingles and other vaccines coverage, costs, and more!

Medicare Shot Guidelines:

Medicare Part D: This plan covers the shingles shot. By enrolling into a Part D plan, you have the benefit built in.

Medicare Part B: This plan does NOT cover the Shingles vaccination., but it does cover the flu, pneumonia, and hepatitis B shot.

Shingle Vaccine Costs

The cost of the shingle vaccine can depend on where the vaccination is given:

In-Network Pharmacy: Your cost is lowest if you have the vaccination done in a in-network pharmacy (if your Part D plan has a preferred pharmacy). Otherwise, the cost will be higher than your plan’s copay for the shingles shot.

Doctor’s Office: If the shot is given in your doctor’s office, you are responsible to pay for the vaccination up front. Then, you will have to work with your Medicare Part D company to receive your proper reimbursement. If you have not met your deductible on your Part D plan, getting a shingles shot will go towards your deductible.

If you have additional questions on how the Shingles Vaccine or other vaccines work, we would be happy to answer any of your questions.