You may not realize that you need vaccines throughout your life. Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. You are also at risk for different diseases as an adult. Vaccination is one of the most convenient and safest preventive care measures available.
All health insurance marketplace plans and most other private insurance plans must cover the following vaccines without charging a copayment or coinsurance when provided by an in-network provider. This is true even for patients who have not met a yearly deductible.
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Herpes zoster (shingles)
- Human papillomavirus
- Influenza
- Measles, mumps, rubella
- Meningococcal (check with your provider about your coverage)
- Pneumococcal
- Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis
- Varicella
Check with your insurance provider for details of coverage and whether there is any cost to you for vaccines.
Medicare Part B will pay for the following vaccines:
- Influenza (flu) vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccines
- Hepatitis B vaccines for people at increased risk of hepatitis
- Vaccines directly related to the treatment of an injury or direct exposure to a disease or condition, such as rabies and tetanus.
Medicare Part D plans identify covered vaccines through formularies. Part D plan formularies must include all commercially available vaccines (except those covered by Part B). A new preventive vaccine might not specifically appear in the formulary, but your plan may still cover the vaccine. Contact your insurance provider to find out about coverage.
Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage Plan Part C that offers Medicare prescription drug coverage may also have coverage for:
- Herpes zoster (shingles)
- MMR
- Tdap
Idaho’s Medicaid agency will cover at least some adult immunizations but may not offer all vaccines that are needed. Check with Idaho's Medicaid agency for more information.
If you serve in the military or are a military dependent, you are eligible for TRICARE. TRICARE vaccines are covered according to the CDC recommended schedule.
Contact your local public health districts or community health center to schedule an immunization. Some vaccinations at these locations may be offered for free or on a sliding scale.
Immunizations are available at a number of locations across Idaho. Immunizations may be available for you at your healthcare provider’s office, your local public health district, and at select pharmacies. Contact your local public health districts or community health center to schedule an immunization.