Blood processing & handling
Medicare covers this service based on where you get it
Description
Hospitals usually charge for blood processing and handling for each unit of blood you get, whether the blood is donated or purchased.
Coverage details
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers this service if you’re an inpatient. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers this service if you’re an outpatient.
Costs
After you meet the Part A deductible , there’s no copayment for blood you get as an inpatient.
After you meet the Part B deductible, you pay a copayment for the blood processing and handling services for every unit of blood you get as a hospital outpatient. The Part B copayment varies depending on the services you get, but it won't be more than the inpatient deductible amount.
Ask your doctor or healthcare provider how much your test, item, or service will cost.
Your doctor may recommend services that Medicare does not cover or offers too frequently. This could end up in additional costs for you. Make sure to ask your doctor about the reasons for these recommendations and what Medicare will actually cover.
Specific amounts you could owe depend on:
Other insurance you may have
How much your doctor charges
If your doctor accepts assignment
The type of facility
Where you get your test, item, or service