
Some insurance plans may cover PureWick for urinary incontinence, but it depends on the specific policy and provider.
Medicare Part B covers absorbent products, including urinary incontinence supplies, but it's essential to check with your provider to confirm coverage.
Many private insurance plans also offer coverage for urinary incontinence supplies, including PureWick, but the extent of coverage varies widely.
Some insurance plans may require a doctor's prescription or a specific diagnosis to qualify for coverage.
Understanding Insurance Coverage
Medicare Part B covers 80% of the cost for Durable Medical Equipment (DME) like external catheters if deemed medically necessary.
Original Medicare doesn't routinely cover PureWick, but some Medicare Advantage plans may include it as a supplemental benefit. To get coverage, you'll need to document your medical necessity and get a prescription from your doctor.
You can explore Medicaid benefits, private insurance options, or manufacturer discounts to make the system more affordable. Consider using the Medicare Plan Finder tool to compare different Medicare Advantage plans and their benefits.
Here are some insurance options that cover catheters:
- Medicare plans
- Medicare Advantage plans
- Commercial plans, such as Humana, BCBS, Aetna, United Healthcare, etc.
- Medicaid plans
Is Covered?
Medicare coverage for external catheters varies, but some plans may cover the PureWick system.
Original Medicare doesn't typically cover PureWick external catheters as standard DME, but some Medicare Advantage plans might offer coverage.
To check if your Medicare plan covers the PureWick system, contact your plan provider directly and ask about coverage.
You can also review your plan documents, including coverage booklets and online resources, for sections on DME and urological supplies.
If your plan doesn't cover the PureWick system, other brands or types of external catheters that meet Medicare's criteria may be covered.
Medicare Advantage plans often provide additional benefits beyond Original Medicare, but it's essential to check with your specific plan provider.
Some Medicare Advantage plans might offer coverage for devices not covered by Original Medicare.
To get coverage for the PureWick Urine Collection System, review your Medicare plan and benefits.
Here are some tips to help you navigate Medicare coverage for external catheters:
- Contact your Medicare Advantage provider to ask about coverage and cost-sharing.
- Review your plan documents for DME and urological supplies coverage.
- Consider purchasing Medigap or supplemental insurance to offset out-of-pocket costs.
Medicare coverage for external catheters can be complex, but understanding your options can save you time and money.
Be sure to discuss your condition with your doctor to determine if the PureWick system is medically necessary.
Your doctor can provide a prescription and supporting documentation to support your claim.
If your plan doesn't cover the PureWick system, consider purchasing Medigap or supplemental insurance to offset out-of-pocket costs.
Medicare coverage for external catheters can be complex, but understanding your options can save you time and money.
Billing codes for external catheters are crucial for accurate reimbursement and coverage under Medicare.
Here are some common HCPCS codes for external catheters:
Using the correct HCPCS code when billing for external catheters is essential to ensure accurate claim payment.
How It Works
If you're struggling with the paperwork and hassle of getting catheter supplies, there's a simpler way. You can fill out a qualification form or call a Continence Care Specialist at 844-276-5588 to get started.
Once you're approved, the Continence Care specialists will work directly with your insurance company and healthcare provider to take care of all the paperwork. This can be a huge relief if you're not familiar with the process.
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Your catheter supplies will be shipped directly to your home in discreet packaging on a monthly basis. This ensures that you'll always have what you need without having to worry about running out.
You'll receive a text message or email reminder when it's time to reorder, so you'll never have to worry about forgetting to order more supplies.
External Catheters and PureWick
Medicare covers partial coverage for external catheters under certain circumstances. These catheters are a less invasive option for patients with urinary incontinence.
External catheters are covered by Medicare through its Durable Medical Equipment (DME) benefits, especially as a substitute for Foley catheters which are invasive and have a higher risk of infection. Medicare Part B covers 80% of the cost of external catheters and supplies, with 20% out of pocket unless covered by supplemental insurance like Medigap.
To be eligible for coverage, patients must demonstrate medical necessity through proper documentation, including a prescription and evidence of chronic or permanent need for the device. This is under the Prosthetic Device benefit (Social Security Act ยง 1861(s)(8)).
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The correct HCPCS codes for external catheters are essential for accurate reimbursement and coverage under Medicare. The codes are as follows:
The PureWick Urine Collection System is classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and can be billed under Medicare Part B and some Medicaid services, subject to Local Coverage Determination (LCD) criteria.
Insurance Coverage Process
If your insurance plan covers the PureWick system, you can get reimbursed for the costs. To determine if your plan covers PureWick, contact your plan provider directly and ask about coverage.
To check your Medicare plan, you can contact your Medicare Advantage plan provider, review your plan's documentation, consult your healthcare provider, and use the Medicare Plan Finder tool on Medicare.gov. This tool can help you compare different Medicare Advantage plans and their benefits.
You'll need to provide your healthcare provider's documentation to support the medical necessity of the PureWick system for coverage. Your doctor can offer insights into coverage and provide necessary documentation.
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Medicare's DMEPOS criteria are important for patients and caregivers to get reimbursement for medical equipment. If your plan doesn't cover the PureWick system, you can consider purchasing Medigap or supplemental insurance to offset out-of-pocket costs.
Here are the steps to check your Medicare plan:
1. Contact your Medicare Advantage provider
2. Review your plan documents
3. Consult your healthcare provider
4. Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool on Medicare.gov
You can also explore reimbursement options through your private insurance provider. Some insurance plans might offer partial coverage based on medical necessity.
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Alternatives and Options
If you're not sure if your insurance covers the PureWick system, don't worry, there are alternatives and options to consider. Medicare Advantage Plans often have extra benefits that cover the PureWick system, but coverage varies by carrier, so it's best to check with your carrier directly.
Medicaid coverage for the PureWick system also varies by state, so it's essential to contact your state's Medicaid office to find out about coverage and eligibility requirements. Some states may cover the system, while others may not.
If you have a private insurance plan, you can check with your carrier to see if they cover the PureWick system or similar external catheters. Be sure to ask about any requirements, such as prior authorization or proof of medical necessity, as well as the out-of-pocket cost.
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Alternatives

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One example is the East Palo Alto Community Land Trust, which has helped preserve over 1,000 homes for low-income families.
Options
If you're looking for alternative options for coverage, there are several routes you can take. Medicare Advantage plans can provide extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn't cover, including coverage for the PureWick system. You can use the Medicare Plan Finder or contact your carrier directly to find out more.
Coverage for the PureWick system may vary by carrier, so it's essential to check your plan specifics. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover the system fully or partially, while others may not cover it at all.
Medicaid services can also provide coverage for the PureWick system, but this varies by state. You'll need to contact your state's Medicaid office to find out about coverage and eligibility requirements.

Private insurance plans can offer varying levels of coverage for the PureWick system. Some carriers may cover it fully or partially, while others may not cover it at all. If you have a private plan, it's a good idea to ask your carrier about coverage for the PureWick system and any requirements you may need to meet.
Here are some questions to ask your carrier:
- Does my plan cover the PureWick system or similar external catheters?
- Is prior authorization required or proof of medical necessity?
- What's the out-of-pocket cost?
By asking these questions, you can get a better understanding of your coverage options and make informed decisions about your healthcare.
Managing Urinary Incontinence
Managing urinary incontinence requires staying informed about your coverage. Review your plan during Open Enrollment each year to ensure it's still right for you.
You should talk to healthcare providers and Medicare advisors for personalized advice on coverage and alternatives. They can help you navigate the system and find the best options for your needs.
To find plans that cover PureWick, use the Medicare Plan Finder. If there's a gap in coverage, consider private insurance, Medicaid, or financial assistance programs.
Here are some steps to take:
- Review your plan during Open Enrollment each year.
- Talk to healthcare providers and Medicare advisors.
- Use the Medicare Plan Finder to find plans that cover PureWick.
- Consider private insurance, Medicaid, or financial assistance programs if there's a gap in coverage.
Contact Medicare Advisors Insurance Group LLC for personalized help with Medicare or to find cost-saving options for PureWick. They can make it easy for you and get you the care and equipment you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Medicare stop paying for PureWick?
Medicare stopped paying for PureWick because it doesn't meet their "reasonable and necessary" coverage criteria. This decision is based on Medicare's standards for Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS).
Sources
- https://www.promed-dme.com/resource/does-medicare-cover-purewick-external-catheter
- https://community.aarp.org/t5/Caregiving/Understanding-Medicare-Coverage-for-PureWick/td-p/2582453
- https://www.activstyle.com/resources/does-insurance-cover-urinary-catheters/
- https://aeroflowurology.com/catheter-coverage-through-insurance
- https://medicareabc.com/medicare-coverage-for-purewick/
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