Medicare covers kidney dialysis for people with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), which is permanent kidney failure requiring regular dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive. Importantly, ESRD is one of the few conditions that qualifies a person for Medicare at any age, not just at 65.
Does Medicare Cover Kidney Dialysis?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers outpatient dialysis services, including hemodialysis performed at a Medicare-certified dialysis facility, peritoneal dialysis performed at home (with training), and home hemodialysis (with training and equipment). Medicare Part A covers inpatient dialysis when you are admitted to a hospital for a related condition.
| Dialysis Type | Where Performed | Medicare Part |
|---|---|---|
Hemodialysis | Medicare-certified dialysis facility | Part B |
Peritoneal dialysis (CAPD/CCPD) | At home, after training | Part B |
Home hemodialysis | At home, after training | Part B |
Inpatient dialysis | Hospital (when admitted) | Part A |
When Does Medicare Coverage for ESRD Begin?
Medicare coverage for ESRD typically begins the 4th month of dialysis treatments. However, if you participate in a home dialysis training program, coverage can begin the first month of training. If you receive a kidney transplant, coverage begins the month of the transplant.
ESRD Medicare Eligibility at Any Age
Unlike most Medicare eligibility, which requires age 65 or a qualifying disability, ESRD qualifies you for Medicare regardless of age. You must apply for Medicare through Social Security. Coverage does not begin automatically.
What Does Dialysis Cost Under Medicare?
After meeting your Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), Medicare pays 80% of dialysis costs and you pay 20% coinsurance. Because dialysis is typically required three times per week, these costs can add up significantly over time. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan can cover your 20% coinsurance, dramatically reducing your out-of-pocket dialysis costs.
How to Reduce Your Dialysis Out-of-Pocket Costs
There are several ways to reduce what you pay for dialysis. A Medigap plan covers the 20% coinsurance that Medicare does not pay. If you have limited income, Medicare Savings Programs may help pay your Part B premium and cost-sharing. The Extra Help program can assist with Part D drug costs, which are often significant for ESRD patients. If you are under 65 with ESRD, check your state's rules on Medigap availability, as federal law requires insurers in some states to sell you Medigap.
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