Medicare.gov

Radiation therapy

Medicare covers radiation therapy

  • Covered by Part A
  • Covered by Part B

Coverage details

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers radiation therapy for hospital inpatients. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers radiation therapy for outpatients or patients in freestanding clinics.

Costs

  • If you’re an inpatient: You pay the Part A deductible and coinsurance (if applicable).
  • If you’re an outpatient or in a freestanding clinic: You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the therapy after you meet the Part B deductible.

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