Take a Shot and Be Merry

People over 65 are at a higher risk for complications from the flu, so planning to get the annual flu shot should be on everyone’s holiday to-do list. Medicare is recommending it, and we are too. One sure way to take the ‘merry’ out of the holiday is by getting sick. While the details around the COVID vaccine are still being finalized, folks have an opportunity to protect themselves from the flu now. The strain of flu bug changes every year, so an annual vaccine is recommended.

Where should folks go to get a shot if they are on Medicare?

Per Medicare, under Original Medicare, you pay nothing for a flu shot if your “doctor or other qualified health care provider accepts assignment for giving the shot.” In many cases, shots administered by Medicare plan participating pharmacists will be covered under Part B as the shot is considered a preventative service. We recommend checking with the pharmacy via a quick call or upon arrival before you get the shot. Also, only certain brands of flu vaccines are typically covered. For instance, nasal spray flu vaccines are not FDA approved and therefore, not covered by Medicare.

Alternatively, if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your plan to verify participating pharmacies and providers — pharmacies that accept Medicare Advantage Plans can submit directly for the shot. But again, it is prudent to confirm coverage before getting the service. 

While engaging in holiday activities at home, please remember to keep your health in top shape, too, by scheduling a quick holiday shot at the pharmacy so you can keep the festivities merry! 

Early Medicare education and planning discussions with Certified Medicare Planners®  could help save employees from unexpected fees. By supplying expert resources you provide options for a confident transition to Medicare and potentially identifying savings on their costs.

Consider working with a team of Certified Medicare Planners ® to guide Medicare discussions with your employees. Contact us to learn how we are guiding other HR partners and their employees.

Give your employees personal guidance from a team of experts that will follow them after they retire.

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– Lora