Quick Answer
Yes. Medicare Part B covers smoking cessation counseling at 100% - up to 8 sessions per year with no deductible or coinsurance. Medicare Part D covers prescription stop-smoking medications like varenicline (Chantix) and bupropion (Zyban). Over-the-counter aids like nicotine gum are not covered.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part B) | Covered at $0 | Up to 8 counseling sessions per year at no cost |
| Medicare Advantage | Covered | Required by law to cover cessation counseling |
| Medigap | N/A | Counseling already free; no cost-sharing to cover |
| Medicare Part D | Rx Coverage | Covers prescription cessation medications |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Medicare Part B covers smoking cessation counseling at 100% - you pay nothing for up to 8 sessions per year. The counseling must be provided by a qualified healthcare provider who accepts Medicare assignment.
Smoking cessation counseling includes structured programs with assessment, personalized quit plans, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support. Sessions can be individual or group-based.
If you are unable to quit in one year, you can try again the following calendar year with another 8 sessions covered by Medicare.
What It Covers
- Up to 8 individual or group counseling sessions per year at $0
- Assessment of smoking habits and motivation to quit
- Personalized quit plan development
- Behavioral therapy and coping strategies
What It Doesn't Cover
- Over-the-counter nicotine replacement products (gum, patches, lozenges)
- Non-Medicare-approved cessation programs
- Counseling from providers who don't accept Medicare
Counseling: $0 (no deductible or coinsurance). Prescription medications: Part D copays apply.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans are required by law to cover smoking cessation counseling and medication. Many plans offer the same $0 cost for counseling sessions.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional smoking cessation benefits beyond what Original Medicare provides, such as expanded counseling sessions or coverage for OTC nicotine replacement products. Check your specific plan details.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Since smoking cessation counseling is already covered at 100% by Part B with no cost-sharing, Medigap provides no additional benefit for counseling. However, Medigap can help cover costs for any related medical visits or treatments that involve standard Part B cost-sharing.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D covers FDA-approved prescription smoking cessation medications, including varenicline (generic Chantix), bupropion (Zyban), NRT inhalers, and NRT nasal sprays. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's formulary tier and your annual drug spending.
Part D does not cover over-the-counter nicotine replacement products like gum, patches, or lozenges. You must have a prescription for covered medications.
Smoking Cessation Treatment Costs with Medicare
| Treatment | Without Insurance | With Medicare |
|---|---|---|
| Counseling sessions (up to 8/year) | $100 – $300 per session | $0 (Part B) |
| Varenicline (generic Chantix) | $300 – $600 for 12-week course | Part D copay (varies) |
| Bupropion (Zyban) | $100 – $400 for 12-week course | Part D copay (varies) |
| NRT inhaler (prescription) | $200 – $500 | Part D copay (varies) |
| OTC nicotine gum/patches | $20 – $50 per month | Not covered |
✦ Important Exceptions & Limitations
Provider Must Accept Medicare Assignment
To receive $0 counseling, your provider must accept Medicare assignment. If they don't, you may be responsible for additional charges.
OTC Products are not Covered
Medicare does not cover over-the-counter nicotine replacement products like gum, patches, or lozenges - only prescription medications through Part D.
8-session annual limit
Medicare covers up to 8 counseling sessions per calendar year. If you need more sessions, you may need to pay out-of-pocket or wait until the next year.
Prescription Required for Medication Coverage
To receive Part D coverage for smoking cessation medications, you must have a valid prescription from your healthcare provider.
Online or Community Programs May not be Covered
Medicare only covers counseling from qualified healthcare providers. Community-based or online cessation programs may not be covered unless they meet Medicare requirements.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is a licensed Medicare expert and member of the Forbes Finance Council who has been helping beneficiaries navigate their Medicare options.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare.