Does Medicare cover diabetic supplies?

Part B helps pay for medical supplies and equipment that are medically necessary to treat diabetes. This includes some of the following durable medical equipment (DME) you can use at home.¹ 

Blood glucose monitors and continuous glucose monitors  

To keep your blood sugar in a safe range, you need to check it often. Part B covers standard blood glucose monitors and may cover a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) if your doctor prescribes it for you.

Test strips and lancets 

If you use a standard blood glucose monitor, you‘ll need test strips and lancets. Every 3 months, Medicare may cover: 

• 300 test strips and 300 lancets if you use insulin.

• 100 test strips and 100 lancets if you don’t use insulin.

Note: Medicare will approve more test strips and lancets if you meet certain requirements and your doctor says the need is medically necessary. 

Insulin pumps  

If your doctor has prescribed an external insulin pump for you, Part B will help pay for the pump and the insulin used with it. The pump must be non-disposable for Part B to cover it.  

What diabetic supplies does Medicare Part D cover?  

While Part B covers durable equipment, Part D handles prescription medications. Under Part D, you get coverage for needles, syringes, alcohol swabs and inhaled-insulin devices. Part D also covers the actual prescription insulin you take, unless it’s given through a durable insulin pump (which falls under Part B).¹

What diabetic services does Medicare cover?  

Medicare pays for more than supplies. It also covers preventive and educational services to help you stay healthy, avoid hospital visits and manage your condition at home.¹

Diabetes screening tests 

If you’re at risk for diabetes, Part B covers screening tests to check your blood sugar levels. You may be eligible for up to 2 screenings each year.

Glaucoma tests  

Part B covers this test once every 12 months if you’re at high risk for glaucoma. A doctor legally authorized by the state must do the test.

Diabetes self-management training  

Part B covers diabetes self-management training services for people recently diagnosed with diabetes or at risk for complications from diabetes. For Medicare to cover these services, you must have a written order from your doctor. 

Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) services  

Part B may cover MNT services if you have diabetes or kidney disease. A doctor must refer you for these services, and only registered dietitians or nutrition professionals can provide the services. 

Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program

  Part B covers a once-per-lifetime health behavior change program to help you prevent diabetes.

Flu and pneumococcal shots  

Part B covers flu shots and pneumococcal shots, as well as Hepatitis B and COVID-19 shots.

Foot exams and treatment 

Part B covers foot exams or treatment every 6 months if you have lower leg damage related to diabetes that increases your risk of limb loss. Medicare won’t cover the exam or treatment if you’ve seen a foot care professional for another reason between visits.

Therapeutic shoes or inserts  

Part B covers therapeutic shoes or inserts if you have severe diabetes-related foot disease.

Yearly “Wellness” visit  

If you’ve been enrolled in Part B for over 12 months, you’re eligible for a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit . Also called a yearly “Wellness” visit, this appointment focuses on preventive care and is not a routine physical exam. 

What services does Medicare not cover for diabetes?  

While Medicare offers a wide range of support, it doesn’t cover everything. For example, Medicare generally doesn't pay for routine eye exams or routine physical exams. Medicare also doesn’t cover weight loss programs that aren't part of a specific preventive service. 

How much do diabetic supplies cost with Medicare?  

With Part B, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for diabetic supplies after you meet your yearly deductible ($283 in 2026). For Part D supplies like syringes and needles, your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific prescription drug plan. 

Learn more about Medicare  

For more information on the costs, coverage and types of Medicare plans, check out our library of Medicare articles . To see Medicare plans in your area with their premiums, copays and participating doctors and pharmacies, visit our Humana Medicare plans page .