As part of Original Medicare, Part B helps pay for more than doctor visits and preventive services.

Part B also helps pay for certain drugs under specific outpatient conditions. These are often vaccinations and other injections that a doctor administers, including some specialty drugs.

This coverage is limited and isn't robust like a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Medicare Advantage plan or Part D prescription drug plan.

What drugs are covered by Part B?

Some examples of drugs covered by Original Medicare Part B include:

• Vaccinations
• Some antigens
• Blood clotting factors
• Injectable and infused drugs
• Injectable osteoporosis drugs
• Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents
• Oral end-stage renal disease drugs
• Transplant and immunosuppressive drugs
• Drugs used with an item of durable medical equipment 
• Intravenous Immune Globulin, or IVIG, provided in home
• Parenteral and enteral nutrition for intravenous and tube feeding

Coverage if you have a Medicare Advantage plan

You can use your Part B benefits with your Medicare Advantage plan for drugs like: 

• Select nebulizer solutions
• Oral cancer medications
• Vaccinations like hepatitis B
• Certain drugs that treat nausea and vomiting
• Immunosuppressants

This is in addition to the flu and pneumonia vaccinations that are already available.

Keep in mind a copay could apply. Call the number on the back of your member ID card if you have questions. 

How much do these drugs cost?

That depends on the drug and what plan you have. Refer to your Evidence of Coverage document or call the number on the back of your member ID card to learn more.