Medicare.gov

Pancreas transplants

Medicare covers pancreas transplants, if you’re eligible

  • Covered by Part A
  • Covered by Part B

Description

A pancreas transplant is a type of surgery that puts someone else’s healthy pancreas into your body.

Coverage details

Medicare covers the transplant if it's done at the same time or after you get a kidney transplant.

In some cases, Medicare may also cover a pancreas transplant even if you don't need a kidney transplant.

If you’re thinking about joining a Medicare Advantage Plan and are on a transplant waiting list or think you need a transplant, check with the plan before you join to make sure your doctors, other health care providers, and hospitals are in the plan’s network . Also, check the plan’s coverage rules for prior authorization .

Who's eligible

If you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and need a pancreas transplant, Medicare covers the transplant if it's done at the same time or after you get a kidney transplant.

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