Medicare Coverage for Kidney Disease: What's Included in 2026
Quick Answer
Yes. Medicare covers chronic kidney disease care and dialysis, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) can qualify for Medicare at any age. Coverage includes dialysis, transplants, and many related medications.
Kidney disease is unique in Medicare: a diagnosis of End-Stage Renal Disease can qualify you for Medicare even under age 65. Coverage spans dialysis, transplant, and the drugs that go with them.
What Original Medicare Covers for Kidney Disease
Part AHospital Coverage
- Inpatient hospital care and kidney transplant surgery (including the donor’s costs)
- Skilled nursing facility care after a qualifying stay
Part BMedical Coverage
- Dialysis treatments, both in-center and at home
- Home dialysis training, equipment, and supplies
- Kidney disease education for stage 4 chronic kidney disease
- ESRD-related lab tests and transplant immunosuppressive drugs
Part DPrescription Drugs
- Oral medications and phosphate binders
- Immunosuppressants not covered under Part B
What Medicare Advantage May Add
Benefits vary by plan, county, and year. The items below are common but not guaranteed — always confirm in the plan’s Summary of Benefits.
- Since 2021, people with ESRD can enroll in Medicare Advantage
- Transportation to dialysis and care coordination on some plans
- OTC allowances and ESRD-focused Special Needs Plans (varies by plan)
What Is NOT Covered
- Most non-medical services and supports
- Supplies beyond Medicare-approved amounts
- Services from providers who do not accept Medicare
What You Can Expect to Pay
Dialysis & covered services
20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible
Cost protection
A Medigap policy or Medicare Advantage plan can limit your exposure to the 20%
In Your State
In Florida, Texas, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, people with ESRD can now choose Medicare Advantage, and some plans add transportation to dialysis and care coordination. Networks and extras vary by plan and county.
Tips to Maximize Your Kidney Disease Coverage
- 1An ESRD diagnosis can qualify you for Medicare at any age.
- 2Home dialysis is covered, including training — ask whether it fits your situation.
- 3Use the kidney disease education benefit at stage 4.
- 4Transplant immunosuppressant drugs are covered — confirm whether under Part B or D.
- 5Consider Medigap or Medicare Advantage to limit the 20% coinsurance on dialysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover dialysis?
Yes. Part B covers both in-center and home dialysis, including home dialysis training and supplies. You typically pay 20% after the deductible unless you have additional coverage.
Can I get Medicare with kidney failure under 65?
Yes. End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is one of the conditions that can qualify you for Medicare at any age, not just at 65.
Does Medicare cover a kidney transplant?
Yes. Medicare covers kidney transplant surgery, including the donor’s costs, and the immunosuppressive drugs needed afterward.
Does Medicare cover immunosuppressant drugs?
Yes. Transplant immunosuppressive drugs are covered — many under Part B, and others under Part D — so confirm which applies to your medications.
Find a Plan That Covers Your Kidney Disease Care
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See all conditions and services Medicare coversThis information is for educational purposes. Consult your doctor for medical advice and a licensed Medicare advisor for plan coverage questions. Plan availability, benefits, and costs vary by ZIP code and change annually; dollar amounts are shown with the year they apply and update each year.
HealthPlan Connect is not affiliated with or endorsed by the federal Medicare program or any government agency. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by Lynsey Brennan, Licensed Medicare Advisor (FL License #G007269).