Although older people tend to have fewer headaches than younger folks, women have more migraines than men. Furthermore, research shows migraine may not improve after menopause. Over a 3-month period, 20% of American women report migraines or severe headaches.
Medicare May Cover Botox for Chronic Migraines
Medicare does NOT cover Botox injections for cosmetic reasons. However, Medicare may cover Botox treatments to help prevent chronic migraines.
Chronic migraine is more likely to affect women and rarely stop after menopause. Migraines can be severe enough to disrupt your life, making the pain unbearable. Furthermore, chronic migraines are frequent or long-lasting.
To receive a diagnosis of chronic migraines, you must have the following:
Headaches or migraines at least 15 days per month for three months
Migraine symptoms at least 8 days per month for three months
Botox Injections for Chronic Migraines
The FDA approves Botox injections for chronic migraines that last 4 hours a day or longer. The recommended injection sites include:
Above the eyebrows and forehead area
Side of the head (temple) and above the ear
Back of the head inline with the ears
Back of the neck (trapezius)
Botox is a neuromuscular blocking agent. This migraine treatment can inhibit signals from nerve cells to muscle cells. Thus, Botox can help prevent migraine pain.
Medicare Coverage for Botox Injections
Medicare Part B may cover Botox injections for chronic migraines. During this outpatient procedure, your doctor injects Botox into 31 head/neck muscle area sites. If you have Original Medicare, your out-of-pocket cost is 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. You are also responsible for paying the Part B annual deductible and monthly premiums.
Beyond Botox, many effective migraine medications don't require needles. Call Senior Healthcare Direct at 1-833-463-3262 to speak with a licensed Medicare agent.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The above is meant to be strictly educational and not intended to provide
medical advice or solicit the sales of an insurance product or service of any kind.
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