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Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause mucous membrane growths as well as different types of cancer, mainly in the lower part of the uterus or the cervix. One way to learn if you have HPV is through running a test.
So a common question many people have is, “does Medicare cover HPV testing?” In this article, we answer that question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of HPV tests and other helpful info.
The short answer is yes; Medicare will cover the cost of HPV tests. But not 100% of the time. As is often the case with Medicare, certain conditions have to be met in order for Medicare to pay for your HPV tests. Below we look at what these are so you know what to expect.
Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B) provides coverage for HPV tests. Original Medicare provides coverage for HPV tests as part of their pelvic and pap smear tests. Original Medicare provides coverage for a pap smear test, breast exam, and pelvic exam every 24 months or 2 years.
Coverage for HPV tests, as well as pap smear tests, breast exams, and pelvic exams, are provided by Medicare Part B. However, Medicare Part B may provide coverage for these types of tests once a year or every 12 months if you meet the following conditions:
You are considered at high risk for cervical cancer or vaginal cancer by Medicare Part B if you:
However, if you are at the age of 30 to 65 and are not experiencing symptoms of HPV, Medicare Part B will provide coverage for an HPV test every 5 years.
Medicare Part B covers 100 percent of the costs of an HPV test, as well as pap smear tests, breast exams, and pelvic exams. That means you will no longer pay copayment or coinsurance.
Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) also provide coverage for HPV tests. They cover everything Original Medicare covers and also typically offer some additional benefits as well. However, exactly what it covers and what your out-of-pocket are costs will vary depending on the specifics of your plan.
A single HPV test may cost somewhere from $30 or lower. However, in some cases, doctors may also charge clinic or office visits which add to the total costs.
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.
This article is part of our series on “What does Medicare cover?”
Also, you can check out other articles in this series including: Does Medicare cover vaccines?