Medicare Coverage of the Shingles Vaccine
Answer: The Shingles vaccine is covered under Part D, the prescription drug plan and you would have to be enrolled in a Part D plan to receive this coverage. Medicare Part B does cover some injectables administered in a physician's office but the Shingles vaccine is NOT included under that Medicare Part B coverage.
As with any medication, check with your Part D plan to confirm that the Shingles vaccine (Zostovax) is part of their formulary. Many Part D plans have a deductible and most have copays. The Shingles vaccine is expensive. It is a higher tier drug on most plans, around $170 retail on average, so also check your cost. Most Part D plans have agreements with their network participating pharmacies to administer the Shingles vaccine at the pharmacy for a reduced charge (similar to the flu vaccine). Check with your Part D plan~Check with your pharmacy BEFORE getting the injection.
