Key takeaways
- Medicare Part D generally covers the tetanus vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which are often administered as combined shots like Tdap or DTaP.
- If a tetanus shot is needed due to an injury, Medicare Part B may cover it after meeting the annual deductible, with the beneficiary responsible for a portion of the cost.
- Without coverage, a tetanus shot can cost between $37 and $47, but patient assistance programs and online coupons may help lower the expense.
Tetanus is a serious condition caused by a bacterial toxin called Clostridium tetani. Tetanus is also known as lockjaw because it can cause jaw spasms and stiffness as early symptoms.
Most people in the United States get tetanus vaccines as infants and continue receiving booster shots throughout childhood. Even if you get tetanus boosters regularly, you may still need a tetanus shot for a deep wound.
Medicare Part D covers preventive vaccinations, including tetanus shots. Other parts may cover them under certain circumstances, such as an emergency tetanus booster or vaccination in the event of a disease or injury that could expose you to tetanus toxin.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check with your specific plan provider to find out what’s covered.
Read more to learn the rules for getting coverage for tetanus shots, out-of-pocket costs, and more.
As of 2023, Medicare Part D covers all vaccines recommended by the
In the United States, infants typically receive a DTaP vaccine primary series in three doses at
Part B covers some vaccines as part of preventive care, such as the flu shot, but it will not cover tetanus unless it’s needed due to an injury, such as a deep wound.
Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans must cover at least as much as Original Medicare (parts A and B). For this reason, emergency tetanus shots must be covered by all Part C plans. If your Part C plan covers prescription drugs, it will also cover tetanus booster shots.
Costs with Medicare coverage
If you need a tetanus shot because of an injury, you’ll have to meet your Part B annual deductible of $240 before the cost of the shot will be covered. Medicare Part B will then cover 80% of the Medicare-approved cost, provided you get the shot from a Medicare-approved provider.
You’ll be responsible for 20% of the vaccine’s cost and any related costs, such as your doctor’s visit copay. If you have Medigap, your plan may cover these out-of-pocket costs.
If you’re getting a tetanus booster shot and have Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D, your out-of-pocket costs may vary and will be determined by your plan. You can find out what your booster shot will cost by calling your insurer.
Costs without coverage
If you don’t have prescription drug coverage, you can expect to pay somewhere between
However, if you cannot afford the cost of this vaccine and your doctor recommends it for you, don’t let cost be a deterrent. There are online coupons available for this medication. The manufacturer of Boostrix, the most commonly prescribed tetanus vaccine in the United States, has a patient assistance program, which may lower the cost for you.
Other cost considerations
Additional administrative costs may apply when you get the vaccine. These are often standardized costs included in your doctor’s visit fee, such as your doctor’s time, practice expenses, and professional insurance liability costs.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have any symptoms of tetanus
Tetanus is a serious infection that can be painful and long lasting. It affects the body’s nervous system and can cause severe complications if left untreated.
Thanks to vaccinations, there are only around
- involuntary, uncontrollable tightening of the vocal cords
- broken or fractured bones in the spine, legs, or other areas of the body caused by severe convulsions
- pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)
- pneumonia
- inability to breathe, which can be fatal
Tetanus can even cause death.
Tetanus is a serious and potentially fatal condition. Vaccinations for tetanus have nearly eliminated this condition in the United States. However, infection is possible, especially if you haven’t been vaccinated within the last 10 years.
Medicare Part B and Medicare Part C cover medically necessary tetanus shots for wounds. Medicare Part D plans and Part C plans that include prescription drug benefits cover regular booster vaccines.