Medicare covers insulin through Part D or Part B, depending on how the insulin is administered. The cost of a one-month supply of each covered insulin product is no more than $35, and the deductible does not apply to covered insulin.
Part D insulin
A Medicare drug plan may cover injectable insulin, inhaled insulin, and insulin used with certain disposable or nontraditional pumps. The insulin must be on the plan’s formulary. Part D may also cover supplies used to inject insulin, such as syringes, needles, gauze, and alcohol swabs. These supplies do not necessarily have the same $35 limit as the insulin.
Part B insulin
Part B covers insulin used with a durable insulin pump that Part B covers as durable medical equipment. The pump and insulin require a prescription, medical necessity, and Medicare-enrolled suppliers. Part B does not cover insulin pens, syringes, or injection supplies that are not used with a covered durable pump.
Costs and plan rules
The insulin charge is limited to $35 or less for each one-month supply of each covered product. A two-month supply can cost up to $70 and a three-month supply up to $105. A person receiving Extra Help may pay less. A disposable pump or other equipment may have a separate charge that is not part of the insulin limit.
Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage follow the Part D insulin limit. A plan may cover only listed insulin products and can apply normal formulary rules. For insulin and pumps covered under Part B, Medicare Advantage network and authorization rules may apply.
What to do next
- Check the exact insulin name and dosage on the plan formulary.
- Confirm whether the insulin is billed to Part B or Part D before filling it.
- Ask whether the pharmacy or durable medical equipment supplier is in network.
- Check injection supplies and pump costs separately from the insulin.
- Read Medicare’s insulin coverage page.
Sources
Coverage and costs can change each calendar year. Check current Medicare rules and current plan documents before receiving care. A provider’s estimate is not a Medicare coverage decision. Final payment depends on the claim and the applicable coverage requirements.
Last reviewed: August 2026. Medicare rules and plan benefits can change.