Degenerative Joint Disease Treatment Coverage with medicare
Compare medicare coverage for 8 treatments commonly used for degenerative joint disease. Find out what's covered, requirements, and estimated costs.
Treatment Options & Coverage
Cortisone Injections
Typically CoveredRequirements: Medical necessity documentation
Bracing and Orthotics
Typically CoveredHyaluronic Acid Injections
Typically CoveredRequirements: Diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis • Failed conservative treatment (documented) +1 more
Joint Supplements
Not CoveredOral Medications
Typically CoveredPRP Injections
Not CoveredPhysical Therapy
Typically CoveredRequirements: Physician referral/order • Medical necessity
Topical Treatments
Typically CoveredCoverage Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of medicare coverage for degenerative joint disease treatments.
| Treatment | Covered? | Prior Auth | Est. Cost | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cortisone Injections | No | $100-$300 per injection (with insurance copay typically $20-$50) | strong | |
| Bracing and Orthotics | No | $50-$200 (OTC); $400-$1,500 (custom/unloader) | moderate | |
| Hyaluronic Acid Injections | No | $300-$1,500 per injection series (without insurance) | moderate | |
| Joint Supplements | No | $15-$60 per month | limited | |
| Oral Medications | No | $5-$50 per month (OTC); $30-$200 (prescription) | strong | |
| PRP Injections | No | $500-$2,500 per injection | emerging | |
| Physical Therapy | No | $75-$150 per session (before insurance) | strong | |
| Topical Treatments | No | $10-$30 (OTC); $50-$300 (prescription) | moderate |
Recommended Approach
Based on medicare coverage for degenerative joint disease, we recommend:
- 1 Start with covered conservative options (physical therapy, oral medications)
- 2 If insufficient relief, progress to injection therapies
- 3 Document treatment history for any prior authorization requirements
Find Providers
Search for specialists who treat degenerative joint disease and accept medicare.
Search ProvidersVerify Coverage
Coverage varies by plan. Contact medicare to confirm your specific benefits.
Degenerative Joint Disease + Other Insurance
Find the Right Treatment for You
Take our assessment to find treatments that match your condition, insurance, and preferences.
Take Treatment Assessment