Does Medicare Cover the WATCHMAN Procedure?

About

Medicare 101

Current Clients

Does Medicare Cover the WATCHMAN Procedure?

Heart on Heart Rhythm Background Concept stock photo

By Daniel Petkevich

Dec 1, 2022

Find out if you qualify

Medicare beneficiaries who stay vigilant in preventing strokes might already know about the WATCHMAN procedure. What you need to know is that Medicare offers coverage for it. You do have to meet certain criteria, though. Keep reading to find out if you might qualify.

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

What is the WATCHMAN procedure?

The WATCHMAN procedure is a non-surgical option for people with atrial fibrillation, or AFib. It’s an FDA-approved device that’s placed within the left atrial appendage (LAA) to close it off and keep blood clots from forming there. Once it's in place, the WATCHMAN device helps reduce the risk of stroke in people with AFib.

Who is eligible for Medicare coverage of the WATCHMAN procedure?

In order for Medicare to cover the WATCHMAN procedure, you must meet certain criteria. Medicare will cover the WATCHMAN procedure for those who meet the following:

Increased risk for stroke
Not being able to take long-term blood thinning medications
You must also have a referral from your doctor and be seen by a cardiologist or electrophysiologist (EP) who specializes in treating atrial fibrillation.

If you are approved, Medicare will cover all of the device-related costs associated with the WATCHMAN procedure. This includes the doctor’s office visit and hospital stay for the procedure, which will be covered Part A. Part B will cover any follow-up care related to the device placement.

You will be responsible for the Part A deductible, and up to 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for Part B. If you want to decrease your out-of-pocket costs, you should enroll in

Medicare Supplement Plan G

How to find a doctor who performs the WATCHMAN procedure

If you are interested in the WATCHMAN procedure, it’s important to find a doctor who specializes in treating atrial fibrillation. Medicare providers can help you locate an EP in your area that has experience with the WATCHMAN procedure.

When reviewing doctors and making appointments, make sure to bring up any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure. It’s also important to confirm that the doctor accepts Medicare before moving forward with any kind of treatment.

What are the risks and benefits of having the WATCHMAN procedure done?

The WATCHMAN procedure is generally safe and effective, however there are some potential risks associated with it. These include bleeding, stroke or device-related complications such as infection or damage to the implant site.

The benefits of having the procedure done include a reduced risk for stroke compared to those who do not receive treatment, as well as a decreased need for long-term blood thinning medications.

How to prepare for the WATCHMAN procedure

Prior to your WATCHMAN procedure, you’ll need to meet with your doctor and discuss any allergies or medical conditions that may be a risk factor in the procedure. You should also inform any other doctors who are treating you about the procedure so they can monitor your health accordingly. Additionally, it’s important to talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking and ask about how to prepare for the procedure, including when to stop taking certain medications. You may also need to fast before the WATCHMAN procedure, so make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

What happens after the WATCHMAN procedure is completed?

After the procedure, you will likely be monitored in a hospital for at least 24 hours. This is to make sure that you do not experience any complications from the procedure or device placement. You may need to stay on blood thinners for several months following your WATCHMAN procedure and then your physician can help determine if it’s safe to stop taking them. Additionally, you should follow-up with your doctor regularly to make sure that the device is functioning properly and that your body is healing correctly.

Takeaway

The WATCHMAN procedure can be an effective way for people with atrial fibrillation to reduce their risk of stroke. Knowing if you qualify for Medicare coverage will help make this decision easier, so it’s important to confirm that you meet the criteria and find a doctor who specializes in treating atrial fibrillation. Before undergoing the procedure, remember to talk to your doctor to ensure this is the right choice for you. This content is for informational purposes only. For all your Medicare questions, we are here for you at Fair Square Medicare. Call today to speak with an expert.

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

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.

888-572-6033

info@fairsquaremedicare.com

About

Medicare 101

Current Clients

Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans

Fair Square 2024

•

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. © 2024 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

Does Medicare Cover the WATCHMAN Procedure?

Find out if you qualify

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

What is the WATCHMAN procedure?

Who is eligible for Medicare coverage of the WATCHMAN procedure?

How to find a doctor who performs the WATCHMAN procedure

What are the risks and benefits of having the WATCHMAN procedure done?

How to prepare for the WATCHMAN procedure

What happens after the WATCHMAN procedure is completed?

Takeaway

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

Recommended Articles

More of our articles

Your Medicare One-Stop-Shop

About

Medicare 101

Current Clients

Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans