Quick Answer
Yes. Medicare Part B covers nebulizer machines as durable medical equipment (DME) when prescribed by a doctor for conditions like COPD or asthma. You pay 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible. Medicare Part D covers nebulizer medications like albuterol.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part B) | Covered (DME) | Covers nebulizer machines at 80% as durable medical equipment |
| Medicare Advantage | Covered | Must cover same DME benefits; network supplier rules apply |
| Medigap | Covers Cost-Sharing | Covers the 20% coinsurance for nebulizer equipment |
| Medicare Part D | Rx Coverage | Covers nebulizer medications (albuterol, steroids, antibiotics) |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Medicare Part B covers nebulizer machines as durable medical equipment (DME) when a doctor prescribes one for a medical condition such as COPD, asthma, or other respiratory ailments. Your doctor must accept Medicare assignment and the equipment must be obtained from a Medicare-enrolled supplier.
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting the annual Part B deductible. Medicare may cover the nebulizer as a rental or purchase, depending on the equipment's expected lifespan. For rentals, you pay 20% of the rental fee each month.
Medicare also covers nebulizer supplies and accessories included in your doctor's prescription. Nebulizer medications such as antibiotics and steroids administered through the device may be covered under Part B or Part D depending on the specific medication.
What It Covers
- Nebulizer machines when prescribed for COPD, asthma, or respiratory conditions
- Nebulizer supplies and accessories included in the prescription
- Equipment rental or purchase from Medicare-enrolled suppliers
- Replacement equipment after 5 years of use (or sooner if lost/stolen/damaged)
What It Doesn't Cover
- Nebulizers not prescribed by a Medicare-enrolled doctor
- Equipment from suppliers who do not accept Medicare
- Nebulizers purchased without a medical necessity determination
20% coinsurance after $283 annual Part B deductible (2025). Medigap covers the 20% coinsurance.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans must cover nebulizer machines and DME at least as well as Original Medicare. Many plans include prescription drug coverage for nebulizer medications. You may need to use in-network DME suppliers to receive the best coverage.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may have different cost-sharing structures or lower out-of-pocket maximums for DME, which can provide savings compared to Original Medicare alone.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Medigap plans cover the 20% coinsurance that Medicare Part B does not pay for nebulizer equipment. With a Medigap plan, your out-of-pocket cost for a nebulizer could be reduced to zero beyond your monthly premium and Part B deductible.
Medigap also covers coinsurance for nebulizer supplies and any medications administered through the device that are covered under Part B. However, Medigap does not cover Part D prescription medications.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D covers nebulizer medications including albuterol, steroids, and antibiotics used in the device. Most Part D plans include albuterol on their formulary. Your costs depend on your plan's tier structure and whether generic options are available.
Part D also covers nebulizer solutions when administered through a metered-dose inhaler or similar device. Check your plan's formulary to confirm coverage for your specific medications.
Nebulizer Machine Costs with Medicare
| Item | Typical Cost | Medicare Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Nebulizer machine (purchase) | $50 - $300 | Covered at 80% (Part B DME) |
| Nebulizer machine (monthly rental) | $20 - $50/month | Covered at 80% (Part B DME) |
| Nebulizer supplies/accessories | $10 - $50 | Covered at 80% (Part B) |
| Albuterol solution | $10 - $50 | Covered (Part D) |
| Nebulizer steroids | $20 - $100 | Covered (Part D) |
| Replacement nebulizer (after 5 years) | $50 - $300 | Covered at 80% (Part B DME) |
✦ Exceptions and Limitations
Supplier Requirements
Your nebulizer must be obtained from a Medicare-enrolled DME supplier who accepts Medicare assignment. Equipment from non-participating suppliers may not be covered.
Replacement Rules
Medicare only replaces nebulizer equipment after 5 years of use. Earlier replacement is covered only if the equipment is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond repair due to a natural disaster or accident.
Prescription Requirement
A doctor must prescribe the nebulizer and determine it is medically necessary. Medicare will not cover a nebulizer purchased without a valid prescription from a Medicare-enrolled provider.
Rental vs. Purchase
Medicare may cover your nebulizer as a rental or purchase depending on the equipment's expected lifespan. For equipment with a life expectancy of 3 years or more, Medicare typically covers it as a purchase after a rental period.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare.