Compression stockings come with different pressures to help improve blood flow. Custom ones aren’t typically covered by Original Medicare except to treat specific conditions. Some Medicare Advantage plans may provide coverage.
Compression stockings can reduce leg swelling and help blood flow against gravity. They come in various types for different needs. Original Medicare will only cover them when prescribed for the treatment of lymphedema or venous stasis ulcers.
Keep reading to find out more about when Medicare may pay for your compression stockings and how you can get help paying for them outside of Medicare.
Generally, Medicare will reimburse you only for durable medical equipment (DME), like a wheelchair, walker, or hospital bed. Historically, Medicare hasn’t covered compression stockings.
However, as of 2024, Medicare covers compression garments if you have a diagnosis of lymphedema. Similarly, it also covers them to treat a venous stasis ulcer in your leg. In both cases, you’ll need a prescription from your doctor to receive coverage.
The portion of Medicare that pays for this is Medicare Part B. This is medical coverage that also helps pay for doctor’s office visits and some preventive care (such as some immunizations).
When you have a diagnosis of lymphedema, you’re eligible for Medicare coverage not only for compression stockings but for other related supplies. These supplies include bandaging systems, wraps with adjustable straps, fillers, lining, padding, and zippers.
Medicare Part B will pay for:
- three daytime garments every 6 months per affected body part
- two nighttime garments every 2 years per affected body part
Medicare will also pay for replacements when needed.
To treat a venous ulcer, Medicare will consider compression garments as surgical dressings. Along with that, it will usually cover things like:
- skin sealants
- wound cleansers
- saline solutions
- topical antiseptics and antibiotics
- debriding agents
- gauze
- adhesive bandages
When it comes to compression stockings necessary for other reasons, Medicare usually won’t cover it. For example, Medicare won’t cover if you purchase compression stockings for preventive purposes, such as to stop blood clots or swelling.
If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, your plan may also cover compression stockings. That’s because Medicare Advantage plans are required to provide the same benefits as Original Medicare. That said, you’d still need a prescription from your doctor for one of the approved diagnoses.
In addition, in 2019, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) passed rules that allow Medicare Advantage plans to expand their covered benefits to “supplemental benefits.”
While these benefits vary by company, they often involve providing a certain amount of money you can use for over-the-counter health purchases.
Examples may include items you’d commonly purchase at a pharmacy, such as:
- medications
- thermometers
- first aid supplies
Some Medicare Advantage companies may also include compression stockings under this benefit.
Medigap, also called Medicare supplement insurance, is a way to save money on your out-of-pocket costs with Original Medicare.
However, Medigap covers only Medicare-approved items and services. This means Medigap coverage would only apply if you require compression stockings for a reason authorized under Medicare Part B.
The costs for compression stockings differ based on the type of stocking and fit. According to the Lymphedema Advocacy Group, the following are example costs for different types of compression stockings:
- Knee-high stocking, standard fit: $64
- Knee-high stocking, custom fit: $228
- Thigh-high stocking, standard fit: $87
- Thigh-high stocking, custom fit: $347
While these stockings can be expensive, they can play an important role in preventing medical conditions and lowering pain, which may save you money in the long run.
If you need assistance paying for compression stockings, some options to consider include:
- Medicaid: Medicaid is a state and federal insurance program for those below a certain income level. Although benefits vary by state, some Medicaid programs may cover compression stockings.
- Manufacturer’s rebates: When purchasing compression stockings, you may be able to receive discounts from a manufacturer or store. You can ask whether they have need-based programs or financing options for more expensive stockings.
- Nonprofit organizations: You may be able to secure financing help from nonprofit organizations specific to the condition you need them for. Examples could include the Lymphedema Advocacy Group,
American Cancer Society , American Diabetes Association, or other local nonprofits.
You can also talk with your doctor about any suggestions they may have regarding cost savings for purchasing compression stockings.
Medicare will only pay for compression stockings when prescribed to treat lymphedema or venous stasis ulcers. The coverage is available under Part B.
Depending on your specific plan, you may get help paying for compression stockings through Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and other organizations.