Which types of dressings are not covered under the Medicare Medicaid surgical dressings benefits?

Asked by: Mr. Ibrahim Kutch IV  |  Last update: December 30, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (57 votes)

The following are examples of wound care items which are non-covered under the surgical dressing benefit because they do not meet the statutory definition of a dressing (not all-inclusive): Skin sealants or barriers (A6250) Wound cleansers (A6260) or irrigating solutions. Solutions used to moisten gauze (e.g., saline)

Are wound dressings covered by Medicare?

Coverage includes both primary and secondary dressings. Primary dressings, such as foam or hydrogel dressings, directly cover the wound. Secondary dressings, which secure a primary dressing, can consist of gauze, bandages, or adhesive tape. Medicare also requires a written, signed, and dated order from a doctor.

Is mepilex covered by Medicare?

If you have coverage through Medicare Part B, you may be eligible to have this product covered by Medicare. You will need a written order prescribed by a provider enrolled in Medicare, so that you can purchase this product at a Durable Medical Equipment store that accepts Medicare.

Does Medicare cover MediHoney?

Under the Medicare Part B Durable Medical Equipment Prosthetics/Orthotics and Supplies Fee Schedule (DMEPOS), MediHoney Dressings are covered under Local Coverage Determination (LCD): Surgical Dressings Policy (L33831) and reimbursed based on an established fee schedule established by the Pricing, Data Analysis and ...

What are the benefits of surgical dressing?

Wound dressings can be used to limit tissue inflammation, prevent microbial overgrowth, prevent tissue infections, and control wound site exudate. Further, some dressings contain materials that stimulate the re-epithelialization phase of wound healing, resulting in a faster recovery rate in treated patients.

WoundRounds on Demand Webinar: Medicare Part B Billing for Wound Care Supplies: A Practical Guide

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What is considered a surgical dressing?

Products that are eligible to be classified as a surgical dressing are defined as: Primary dressings - Therapeutic or protective coverings applied directly to wounds or lesions either on the skin or caused by an opening to the skin.

Does Medicaid cover dressing supplies?

Generally, Medicaid covers a range of wound care supplies deemed medically necessary. These typically include: Primary Dressings: Such as foams, alginates, hydrocolloids, and hydrogels that directly contact the wound. Secondary Supplies: Including bandages and tapes used to hold primary dressings in place.

What is typically not covered by Medicare?

We don't cover these routine items and services: Routine or annual physical checkups (visit Medicare Wellness Visits to learn about exceptions). exams required by third parties, like insurance companies, businesses, or government agencies. Eye exams for prescribing, fitting, or changing eyeglasses.

What treatments are not covered by Medicare?

Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include:
  • Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
  • Long-term care.
  • Cosmetic surgery.
  • Massage therapy.
  • Routine physical exams.
  • Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.

Does Medicare pay for hyaluronic acid?

Medicare does cover rooster comb injections, also known as hyaluronic acid injections. Doctors administer rooster comb injections to treat knee osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis.

What items does Medicare cover?

Medicare-covered DME includes, but isn't limited to:
  • Blood sugar meters.
  • Blood sugar test strips.
  • Canes.
  • Commode chairs.
  • Continuous passive motion machines, devices & accessories.
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines.
  • Crutches.
  • Hospital beds.

What is considered skilled wound care?

Skilled Wound Care is a physician group that specializes in a variety of bedside procedures such as skin, wound, and ostomy treatments.

What are the disadvantages of mepilex?

Mepilex® Ag may cause transient discolouration of the wound bed and surrounding skin. In the event of clinical infection, Mepilex® Ag does not replace the need for systemic therapy or other adequate infection treatment.

What DME is not covered by Medicare?

What kind of equipment does Medicare not cover? Examples: wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, power scooters, portable oxygen equipment, orthotics, prosthetics, certain diabetes supplies.

Can you get a prescription for dressings?

Yes, you can get a prescription for wound care supplies. It's common for healthcare professionals to prescribe specific wound care supplies to ensure that the wound heals properly. These supplies can include dressings, bandages, and other specialized items.

What is not covered by Medicaid?

Medicaid coverage can vary from state to state, but here are some common services and items that are typically not covered: Elective cosmetic procedures: Cosmetic surgeries and procedures, such as cosmetic dentistry and non-medical weight loss procedures, that are not medically necessary are typically not covered.

What is excluded under Medicare?

Long-term care includes non-medical care for people who have a chronic illness or disability. This includes non-skilled personal care assistance, like help with everyday activities, including dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom. Medicare and most health insurance plans, don't cover long-term care.

Will Medicare pay for a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks, or abdominoplasty, are considered cosmetic procedures and are not covered by Medicaid or Medicare unless deemed medically necessary. Dual eligibility for Medicaid and Medicare is possible, with low-income seniors and disabled individuals often meeting the criteria for both programs.

What is Medicare non coverage?

A Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NOMNC) is a notice that indicates when your care is set to end from a home health agency (HHA), skilled nursing facility (SNF), comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility (CORF), or hospice.

What does Medicaid Part B not cover?

Medicare Part B typically doesn't cover routine vision, hearing, and dental care, regular foot care, and aids like eyeglasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids. But Part B policies often change, so it's important to verify coverage details with Medicare.

How can I find out if Medicare will cover a procedure?

2 ways to find out if Medicare covers what you need:
  1. Talk to your doctor about why you need certain services or supplies. Ask if Medicare will cover them. What happens if Medicare won't cover a service I need?
  2. Check coverage information on your item, service, or supply.

Does Medicare cover wound dressings?

Medicare refers to wound care supplies as “surgical dressings.” Surgical dressings are covered when a qualifying wound is present. A qualifying wound is defined as either of the following: A wound caused by or treated by a surgical procedure. A wound that requires debridement, regardless of the debridement technique.

What does Medicaid cover for surgery?

In almost every case, an emergency surgery qualifies for coverage through Medicaid services. If an elective or cosmetic surgery is deemed medically necessary, it can also be approved.

What does Medicare not cover for seniors?

Medicare doesn't cover supplies and services that aren't considered medically necessary, such as cosmetic surgery. The program also doesn't cover long-term care or most dental services.