Fair Square Medicare Wordmark

Does Medicare Cover an FMT?

Fecal microbiota transplant from healthy in unhealthy intestine, FMT. Improvement intestinal microflora and normalization stool by introducing beneficial bacteria in bowel colon tract. Vector stock illustration

By Daniel Petkevich

Dec 2, 2022

Usually not, but you might qualify

If you are interested in a Fecal Microbiota Transplantation, your coverage might depend on where you live. There currently is no national coverage position, but you might still get coverage if it's deemed medically necessary and you get approval. Let's learn more about if an FMT is right for you.

Speak with a Medicare Advocate

Talk to one of our Licensed Medicare Agents today to find the right plans for you.

What is an FMT and what are its benefits?

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) is a medical procedure in which healthy bacteria from one individual's gastrointestinal tract are transplanted into another person's. FMT helps to restore balance in the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health. It is particularly beneficial for those suffering from Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infections, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease, as it has been found to be effective in treating these conditions.

What is the process of getting an FMT?

In most cases, an FMT is offered through a physician or clinic in the form of either a colonoscopy or an enema. After determining that you are a suitable candidate for an FMT, your doctor will collect and prepare the healthy donor stool sample needed for the transplantation. This sample is then carefully injected into your gastrointestinal tract with an endoscope or through an enema.

Medicare coverage of an FMT

At this time, Medicare does not have a national coverage determination for FMT. This means that Medicare will only cover FMT when it's considered medically necessary. If you are interested in this procedure, you should talk with your doctor to determine if it is a viable option for you. In some cases, your doctor may be able to provide the FMT service and bill Medicare for it or refer you to a specialist who does. You should also contact your local Medicare office to see if they have any coverage policies that include FMT.

How much will it cost you to get an FMT done?

The cost of an FMT varies depending on the clinic or doctor performing the procedure and how extensive it is. Generally, you should expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 for a full course of treatment. It's important to note that Medicare does not usually cover these costs. Talk with your Medicare plan provider to see what it might cost for your specific situation.

Risks associated with getting FMT done

While an FMT is generally considered safe, there are still some potential risks associated with the procedure. These include allergic reactions to donor stool, infection, and even rare cases of intestinal blockages. It's important to talk to your doctor about these risks before undergoing FMT so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right choice for you.

How long will the results of the procedure last?

The effects of an FMT typically last for several months but can sometimes be longer, depending on the individual. Continue to follow up with your doctor after undergoing the procedure to monitor your progress and make sure that any conditions you may have are being appropriately managed.

Will I need to take any special precautions after getting the treatment done?

The best way to ensure that you get the most benefit from your FMT is to follow your doctor's instructions for post-treatment care. This may include taking probiotics and/or other medications to help maintain the balance of bacteria in your digestive system and get regular checkups with your physician. Additionally, it's important to continue to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding raw foods that may contain bacteria or parasites. With careful management and proactive care, it's possible to enjoy the long-term benefits of FMT.

Conclusion

Overall, an FMT can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions and may help improve your overall health and quality of life. Talk to your doctor about whether or not it is a viable option for you, and make sure to inquire about any coverage policies that might apply to you through Medicare. This content is for informational purposes only. Fair Square Medicare is here for you through each step of your Medicare journey. Give us a call today.

Speak with a Medicare Advocate

Talk to one of our Licensed Medicare Agents today to find the right plans for you.

Recommended Articles

An elderly couple discusses their healthcare and insurance needs with another woman stock image

Medicare Guaranteed Issue Rights by State

Feb 10, 2023

Cover image

When to Choose Medicare Advantage over Medicare Supplement

Jun 7, 2023

Cover image

2025 Medicare Price Changes

Oct 30, 2023

Last will and testament stock photo

Does Medicare Pay for Funeral Expenses?

Dec 6, 2022

Cover image

Gap Health Insurance: The Secret Sidekick to Your High-Deductible Plan

Jul 14, 2025

Saving money against a stopwatch stock image

What is the 8-Minute Rule on Medicare?

Dec 21, 2022

Cover image

Medicare Deductibles Resetting in 2025

Jan 18, 2024

Senior person holding tissue roll near a toilet bowl, using walker to walk to the bathroom stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Urodynamic Testing?

Dec 2, 2022

A women's restroom sign that has been modified to show the stick figure woman needing to use the toilet

Does Medicare Cover Bladder Sling Surgery?

Jan 11, 2023

Abortion stock image

Does Medicare Cover Abortion Services?

Dec 13, 2022

woman working from home with a headset on stock image

How Do Medicare Agents Get Paid?

Apr 12, 2023

Cover image

Will Medicare Cover it?

Oct 3, 2023

Cover image

Welcome to Fair Square's First Newsletter

Feb 28, 2023

bearded man holding his head in confusion looking at his laptop stock image

Why Is Medicare So Confusing?

Apr 19, 2023

Cover image

What to Do When Your Doctor Leaves Your Network

Jul 15, 2025

Medicare Set Aside funds stock image

What Happens to Unused Medicare Set-Aside Funds?

Jan 20, 2023

A doctor with a clipboard consults a female patient with cancer

Does Medicare Cover Inqovi?

Jan 11, 2023

Doctor demonstrating upper cervical spine anatomy stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Cervical Disc Replacement?

Jan 20, 2023

More of our articles

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Columbus

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Jacksonville

14 Best Ways to Stay Active in Charlotte

Can Doctors Choose Not to Accept Medicare?

Can I Choose Marketplace Coverage Instead of Medicare?

Can I switch From Medicare Advantage to Medigap?

Comparing All Medigap Plans | Chart Updated for 2025

Costco Pharmacy Partners with Fair Square

Do I Need to Renew My Medicare?

Do Medicare Supplement Plans Cover Dental and Vision?

Does Medicare Cover Air Purifiers?

Does Medicare Cover Breast Implant Removal?

Does Medicare Cover Cataract Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Cold Laser Therapy (CLT)?

Does Medicare cover Deviated Septum Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Diabetic Eye Exams?

Does Medicare Cover Flu Shots?

Does Medicare Cover Fosamax?

Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?

Does Medicare Cover Hepatitis C Treatment?

Does Medicare cover Hyoscyamine?

Does Medicare Cover Ilumya?

Does Medicare Cover Inspire for Sleep Apnea?

Does Medicare Cover Iovera Treatment?

Does Medicare Cover Jakafi?

Does Medicare Cover Ketamine Infusion for Depression?

Does Medicare Cover Krystexxa?

Does Medicare Cover Kyphoplasty?

Does Medicare Cover Light Therapy for Psoriasis?

Does Medicare Cover LVAD Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Ofev?

Does Medicare Cover Oxybutynin?

Does Medicare Cover Penile Implant Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover RSV Vaccines?

Does Medicare Cover Shock Wave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

Does Medicare Cover the Urolift Procedure?

Does Medicare Cover Tymlos?

Does Medicare Cover Wart Removal?

Does Medicare Cover Xiafaxan?

Does Medicare Require a Referral for Audiology Exams?

Does Your Plan Include A Free Gym Membership?

Everything About Your Medicare Card + Medicare Number

Fair Square Bulletin: We're Revolutionizing Medicare

Fair Square Client Newsletter: AEP Edition

Finding the Best Vision Plans for Seniors

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Medicare

How Does Medicare Cover Colonoscopies?

How Does the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Affect Your Medicare?

How Much Does a Medicare Coach Cost?

How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost in 2025?

How Much Does Rexulti Cost with Medicare?

How to Compare Medigap Plans in 2025

Is Botox Covered by Medicare?

Is HIFU Covered by Medicare?

Is PAE Covered by Medicare?

Is the Shingles Vaccine Covered by Medicare?

Medicare 101

Medicare Advantage Plans for Disabled People Under 65

Medigap Plan N vs. Plan G — Which One Fits You in 2025?

Seeing the Value in Fair Square

Should You Work With A Remote Medicare Agent?

The Fair Square Bulletin: October 2023

Top 10 Physical Therapy Clinics in San Diego

What Are Medicare Part B Excess Charges?

What is a Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman?

What is Plan J?

What is the Medicare ICEP?

What People Don't Realize About Medicare

What To Do If Your Medicare Advantage Plan Is Discontinued

What You Need to Know About Creditable Coverage

What's the Difference Between HMO and PPO Plans?

Which Medigap Policies Provide Coverage for Long-Term Care?

Your Medicare One-Stop-Shop

Your guide to Medicare Parts A & B, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap. 100% free.

Get the Fair Square Bulletin

Medicare savings tips, helpful guides, and more.

About

Medicare 101

Current Clients

Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans

Fair Square 2025

Terms of Use
Notice of Privacy Practices

Virgil Insurance Agency, LLC (DBA Fair Square Medicare) and www.fairsquaremedicare.com are privately owned and operated by Help Button Inc. Medicare supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance. A licensed agent/producer may contact you. Medicare Supplement insurance is available to those age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and, in some states, to those under age 65 eligible for Medicare due to disability or End-Stage Renal disease. Virgil Insurance Agency is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO SNP and PFFS organizations and stand-alone PDP prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. The plans we represent do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Plan availability varies by region and state. For a complete list of available plans please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov. © 2025 Help Button Inc

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

MULTIPLAN_FairSquareMedicare_01062022_M

Fair Square Medicare

FSM symbol - 50