Does Medicare Cover Wound Care Services at Home?
Yes, Medicare covers home-based wound care services for eligible seniors under the Home Health Benefit, provided specific criteria are met. This means qualified patients can receive skilled wound care from licensed nurses at home—with most costs covered by Medicare. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s covered, who qualifies, and how to get started.
What Wound Care Services Are Covered?
- Skilled nursing care for wound assessment, cleaning, dressing changes, debridement, and infection management
- Monitoring for healing progress and complications
- Education for patients and caregivers on wound care and prevention
- Coordination with doctors, wound specialists, and therapists as needed
- Certain medical supplies, such as dressings and bandages, are also covered
Medicare Eligibility Requirements
- You must be under the care of a doctor, with a specific plan of care ordered
- Wound care must be medically necessary and require the skills of a licensed nurse
- You must be homebound (leaving home requires considerable effort and occurs infrequently)
- Services must be delivered by a Medicare-certified home health agency
What Medicare Does Not Cover
- 24/7 care or unskilled “custodial” care (like housekeeping, meal prep, or companionship only)
- Non-medical supplies not related to wound care
How Much Does Medicare Pay?
- For most wound care services and necessary supplies, Medicare covers 100% of the approved amount
- For durable medical equipment (special mattresses, wound vacs), Medicare Part B pays 80% after the deductible
How to Start Medicare-Covered Wound Care
- See your doctor for an assessment and wound care referral
- Contact a Medicare-certified home health agency for an in-home evaluation
- The agency will develop a care plan and coordinate visits with a wound care nurse
How Long Will Coverage Last?
- Medicare covers wound care as long as you remain eligible and require skilled nursing care. Recertification is required every 60 days.
For more information on Medicare coverage and wound care at home, visit our Wound Care page or speak with a Medicare-certified home health agency.
