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Does Medicare Cover Adult Diapers? What You Need to Know

For millions of older adults managing incontinence, the cost of adult diapers can quickly add up. Naturally, many wonder if Medicare covers incontinence supplies like adult diapers or pull-ups. The answer depends on your Medicare plan, your condition, and how the supplies are prescribed.

Here’s what Medicare does (and doesn’t) cover, plus how you may still qualify for assistance with adult diaper costs.

Does Original Medicare Cover Adult Diapers?

Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover adult diapers or incontinence pads—even if they’re medically necessary. These products are considered personal convenience items and are not covered under durable medical equipment (DME) rules.

That means if you're enrolled in Original Medicare, you’ll typically need to pay out of pocket for adult diapers, briefs, liners, or pads used for daily incontinence.

When Can Medicare Help Cover Incontinence Supplies?

Although Original Medicare won’t help, there are still ways to get coverage:

  • Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
  • Some Advantage plans may include over-the-counter (OTC) allowances that can be used to purchase incontinence supplies like:
  • Adult diapers
  • Absorbent underwear
  • Liners and booster pads

These benefits vary by plan, provider, and location. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer monthly OTC cards with values ranging from $25 to $100+.

  • Medicaid Coverage
  • If you’re dual-eligible (enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid), your state Medicaid program may cover adult diapers for qualified individuals with documented incontinence diagnoses.

How to Get Diapers Through a Medicare Advantage Plan

If your current plan offers OTC benefits that include adult diapers, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your plan’s OTC portal or call member services
  2. Browse the OTC catalog for eligible incontinence supplies
  3. Order online, by phone, or through select retail partners (e.g., CVS, Walmart)
  4. Receive supplies by mail or pick them up in-store

Be sure to confirm the specific brands, sizes, and monthly limits covered by your plan.

Where to Find Covered Adult Diapers and Discounts

If you qualify for coverage or just want to save out-of-pocket, check these resources:

  • Medicare Advantage OTC Portals (UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna)
  • Medicaid Medical Supply Vendors – Some states work with suppliers like Aeroflow Urology or J&B Medical
  • Discount Sites – Look for deals on adult diapers at:
  • NorthShore Care Supply
  • Parentgiving
  • Walmart Incontinence

You can also check if nonprofits or senior assistance programs in your area provide free or low-cost incontinence supplies.

Conclusion

While Original Medicare does not cover adult diapers, you may still qualify for coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan or state Medicaid program. If you or a loved one is managing incontinence, it’s worth checking your current plan’s OTC benefits or exploring dual-eligibility options. With the right plan and resources, you can get the supplies you need without the full financial burden.

Sources

Medicare.gov – https://www.medicare.gov

NorthShore Care Supply – https://www.northshorecare.com

Parentgiving – https://www.parentgiving.com

Walmart Incontinence – https://www.walmart.com

Aeroflow Urology – https://www.aeroflowurology.com

J&B Medical – https://www.jandbmedical.com