Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program that helps individuals recover from heart-related conditions, surgeries, or procedures. For many seniors and Medicare beneficiaries, a common question arises: does Medicare pay for cardiac rehab? The good news is yes—Medicare does provide coverage for cardiac rehabilitation under certain conditions. Below, we break down exactly what’s covered, who qualifies, and what costs you might expect.
What Is Cardiac Rehab?
Cardiac rehabilitation is a structured program involving:
- Exercise training
- Education about heart-healthy living
- Counseling to reduce stress
- Support to improve heart function
These programs aim to improve overall cardiovascular health following a heart attack, heart surgery, or diagnosis of certain heart conditions.
Does Medicare Cover Cardiac Rehabilitation?
Yes, Medicare Part B Covers Cardiac Rehab
Medicare Part B covers both initial cardiac rehabilitation and intensive cardiac rehabilitation (ICR) programs. These services must be provided in a hospital outpatient setting or doctor’s office and be deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider.
Medicare typically covers:
- Up to 36 sessions of cardiac rehab over 36 weeks (2–3 sessions per week)
- In some cases, an additional 36 sessions may be approved
- Intensive programs offering up to 72 sessions, if needed
Important: The rehab program must be Medicare-approved and supervised by qualified medical personnel.
What Qualifies a Patient for Cardiac Rehab?
To qualify for Medicare-covered cardiac rehab, the patient must have had one or more of the following:
- A heart attack within the last 12 months
- Coronary artery bypass surgery
- Stable angina (chest pain)
- Heart valve repair or replacement
- Coronary angioplasty or stent placement
- Heart or heart-lung transplant
- Stable chronic heart failure (for ICR programs)
The services must be prescribed by a doctor and provided in a setting that meets Medicare’s standards.
How Many Cardiac Rehab Visits Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare Part B covers:
- Up to 36 sessions (1 hour each) over a 36-week period
- Extended coverage: An additional 36 sessions may be covered if deemed medically necessary
- Intensive programs: Up to 72 sessions over 18 weeks, generally covered under intensive cardiac rehab (ICR)
Sessions may include supervised exercise, education, and counseling.
Do You Have to Pay for Cardiac Rehab?
Yes, But Coverage Helps Reduce Costs
Even though Medicare covers cardiac rehab, you may still have out-of-pocket costs, including:
- 20% coinsurance of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting the Part B deductible
- The 2025 Part B deductible is $240 (subject to change annually)
Supplemental plans (Medigap) or Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may help reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
How Much Does Cardiac Rehab Cost Out of Pocket?
The out-of-pocket cost depends on several factors, including the provider’s charges and your insurance coverage. On average:
- Without supplemental insurance, you may pay around $20–50 per session after the Part B deductible
- With Medigap or Medicare Advantage, your cost could be significantly reduced—or even zero
It’s best to check with your healthcare provider and Medicare plan to understand your exact costs.
Final Thoughts
So, does Medicare pay for cardiac rehab? Absolutely—Medicare Part B covers comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation for eligible patients recovering from specific heart-related conditions or procedures. While there may be some out-of-pocket costs, the coverage significantly reduces the financial burden and ensures that beneficiaries receive the care needed for a healthy recovery.
✅ Pro Tip: If you think you may qualify for cardiac rehab, talk to your doctor. Early intervention can improve recovery outcomes and quality of life.
FAQs Recap:
- How many cardiac rehab visits does Medicare cover? Up to 36 sessions, with the possibility of more.
- What qualifies a patient for cardiac rehab? Specific heart events or surgeries like heart attack, bypass surgery, or chronic heart failure.
- Do you have to pay for cardiac rehab? Yes, typically 20% coinsurance unless you have supplemental coverage.
- How much does cardiac rehab cost out of pocket? Around $20–50 per session on average.
