New
Does Medicare Cover Osteoarthritis? Covered Treatments And Services
Medicare typically covers medications, doctor visits, physical therapy, surgery, and assistive devices for osteoarthritis if a doctor considers them medically necessary.
Osteoarthritis occurs due to wear and tear of the cartilage in the joints, leading to pain and reduced range of motion and joint function.
Medicare may pay toward the cost of physical therapy under Part B, which covers outpatient services. Once a person has paid the annual Part B deductible of $257 in 2025, they need to pay 20% toward the cost of the physical therapy. Medicare will pay the remaining 80%. There is no limit on the amount Medicare will pay toward medically necessary outpatient physical therapy each year.
Read more about Medicare’s coverage of physical therapy.
Medicare Part B typically pays 80% of the cost of medically necessary doctor visits as long as the doctor accepts Medicare and the person has paid the Part B deductible.
If people need surgery for osteoarthritis, such as joint replacement, Medicare typically contributes toward care. Once a person has paid the Medicare Part A deductible of $1,676 for their hospital visit, Medicare will cover the hospital stay and rehabilitation services after surgery. Medicare Part B pays for outpatient procedures, consultations, and aftercare.
Medicare Part B covers some assistive devices, such as splints, braces, walkers, canes, and crutches if a doctor prescribes them for use in the home. Medicare classifies this as durable medical equipment. Part B may also pay 80% toward the cost of a seat-lifting mechanism if people cannot maneuver themselves out of a seat without assistance.
Read more about Medicare’s coverage of lift chairs.
People with Original Medicare (parts A and B) can contact Medicare directly to find out about the costs of their osteoarthritis treatments and services. Those with a Medicare Advantage plan can check costs and coverage with their private insurer.
Read about Medicare’s coverage of acupuncture.
The information on this website may assist you in making personal decisions about insurance, but it is not intended to provide advice regarding the purchase or use of any insurance or insurance products. Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance.
