Does Medicare Cover Armour Thyroid?

The thyroid is an important part of our body. Its roles include things such as aiding in metabolism and the growth and development of our bodies.

There are two common thyroid conditions which are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism can be treated using the medications known as Armour Thyroid.

If you have hypothyroidism and want to use this medication to treat it, you likely have the question “does Medicare cover Armour Thyroid?” In this article, we answer that question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of Armour Thyroid and other helpful info.

Does Medicare Cover Armour Thyroid?

The short answer is no. In most cases, Original Medicare will not cover the cost of Armour Thyroid. That said, there may be some situations where you can get these costs covered. Below we’ll take a closer look at this to see when you might be able to get Medicare to pay for your Armour Thyroid.

Original Medicare

Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B) does not provide coverage for Armour Thyroid. That is because Original Medicare mainly covers medically necessary services, equipment, and treatment rather than prescription drugs. Prescription drug coverage may be provided by either Medicare Advantage plans or Medicare Part D.

Part C and Part D Coverage for Armour Thyroid

However, some Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) provide coverage for Armour Thyroid. Medicare Advantage plans have to cover the same things that Original Medicare covers but will offer additional benefits as well. Exactly what a Part C plan covers and what the out-of-pocket costs are will vary depending on the specifics of your plan.

Medicare Part C plans that include prescription drug plans can provide coverage for medications, such as Armour Thyroid, that your healthcare provider will prescribe for you.

Some Medicare Part D plans may also provide coverage for Armour Thyroid. Part D is a prescription drug plan, and just like Part C, Part D plans are provided by private insurance companies.

However, most Part C and Part D plans do not provide coverage for Armour Thyroid.

If a Medicare Part C or Part D plan provides coverage for Armour Thyroid, it will be considered either as Tier 3 or 4 medication. Most of the time, Tier 3 and 4 medications are preferred branded medications. Tier 3 medications are more expensive than Tier 1 and 2 medications. Tier 4 medications are more expensive than Tier 1, 2, and 3 medications.

Medicare Part D also provides coverage for other prescription medications for thyroid conditions. Though for others, such as NP Thyroid, Part C and D generally will not cover the prescription.

How Much Does Armour Thyroid Cost?

The average cost of 30 tablets of 60mg of Armour Thyroid is $40 if you have to pay for it out-of-pocket. This will depend on the pharmacy where you purchase it.

What Are The Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid gland is not that active and does not produce enough hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, numbness and tingling of the hands, weight gain, constipation, depression, intolerance to cold temperature, and more.

Note: Medicare coverage changes all the time. And your specific coverage may vary from plan to plan for Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Always be sure to double check with your health care provider and/or Medicare insurance provider about what your plan covers and what it does not.