Hepatitis C Screening

Preventive Care

Hepatitis C can be silent for years. Screening finds it early, and treatment can prevent long-term liver damage.

Ask if you should be screened based on age or risk.
If positive, ask about next steps and treatment.

Medicare Coverage

Medicare covers hepatitis C screening tests under Part B with eligibility and frequency rules.

Key takeaways

High-value “silent disease” screening.
Eligibility rules apply.
Early treatment can prevent complications.

Good to Know

Provider Accepts Assignment

In Original Medicare, “accepts assignment” means a provider agrees to Medicare’s approved amount as full payment (with you paying any required deductible/coinsurance). For many preventive services, using a provider who accepts assignment can help keep your costs lower and more predictable.

Frequency Limits

Many Medicare preventive services have frequency limits, meaning Medicare covers them only as often as allowed (for example, once every 12 months, once every five years, or once in your lifetime). The schedule varies by service.

Eligibility Rules

Many preventive services are covered only if you meet Medicare’s eligibility rules. These rules can include your age, risk factors, medical history, lab results, diagnoses, or timing (for example, being “at risk” for a screening).