Medicare Therapy and Rehabilitation Coverage

Original Medicare, administered by the federal government, covers therapy and rehabilitation for both physical and mental health needs. For example:

• After you meet your deductible for Medicare Part B (the part of Original Medicare that provides medical insurance), you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for medically necessary physical therapy or occupational therapy.
• Medicare Part B covers the full cost of one depression screening per year.
• After you meet your deductible, you’ll pay 20% of the Medicare-approved cost for psychotherapy when you see professionals such as a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or clinical social worker.

Not all healthcare providers take Medicare or accept the Medicare-approved amount as full payment, so you should check before making an appointment.

Medicare Advantage plans, provided by private insurance carriers, are required to at least match the therapy and rehabilitation coverage you would get through Original Medicare. These plans may also provide additional benefits that can help you get the care and support you need. However, Medicare Advantage plans may require you to see doctors and specialists who are in a provider network to get the most out of your benefits.

Learn more in our articles.

Sources:

Physical therapy services. Medicare.gov.

Mental health care (outpatient). Medicare.gov.