[crownest]

Medicare coverage of stem cell harvest at relapse?

by crownest on Mon Mar 19, 2018 10:32 am

My 67-year-old-husband is going to have stem cell harvesting. He has a Medicare supplement policy that tells him that they will cover anything that Medicare allows.

Does Medicare allow stem cell harvesting (freezing and storage are not charged to Medicare; already taken care of) and a later transplant at time of first relapse? Or do you have to go straight from harvesting to transplant?

[jgilmore]

Re: Medicare coverage of stem cell harvest at relapse?

by jgilmore on Wed May 30, 2018 12:33 pm

Hello Crownest,

I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2009, and had a second autologous stem cell transplant in 2015. I was still employed, so both my transplants were covered under my employer's medical insurance.

Medicare is extremely complex, and the stakes are high. The answer to your question also can depend on variables specific to your husband. The medical / cancer center where your husband is having his transplant may be a reliable source of information. They would check on coverage before proceeding with any treatment plan.

Also, consult with your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). You'll find that number on the back cover of the Medicare Handbook for your state.

Medicare is not straight forward, and making a wrong decision can be costly on all fronts. Get as accurate a response as possible.