Does Medicare Cover CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is growing in popularity these days — you may even use it yourself. CBD contains non-psychoactive compounds derived from cannabis, which can provide relief to patients for a number of different conditions. Unlike medical marijuana, CBD does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the “high” feeling. Therefore, it can be used without sacrificing your alertness and cognitive function.

As more seniors use CBD oil to address issues like anxiety, chronic pain management and inflammation, many want to know whether Medicare will help cover the costs. After all, depending on the product and strength, it can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars out of pocket per year.

At this time, Medicare does not cover alternative treatments like CBD oil. Although CBD oil from hemp is legal, the FDA has not approved any CBD products, which is required for Medicare coverage. Medicare will only cover items proven by the FDA to show specific medical benefits.

What can CBD oil be good for?

In the meantime, the scientific community is still learning about how CBD may help a number of conditions. While Medicare doesn’t cover these products yet, some studies and trials have shown promising results. Here are some of the conditions CBD might help with:

Anxiety: Anxiety affects millions of adults across the nation, including those with chronic pain. While traditional medicine can help relieve your physical pain, the stress associated with chronic anxiety might wreak havoc on your mental state. CBD oil may be helpful for relieving physical pain, as well as soothing your nervous system, by acting on the brain’s serotonin receptors.

Inflammation: CBD oil may fight inflammation. Recent studies have shown that it affects neurotransmitters and reduces their activity, which in turn reduces pain and inflammation. CBD oil may be a safer alternative to prescription pain relievers, which can produce unpleasant side effects.

Insomnia: If you suffer from chronic pain, getting rest can be difficult. CBD oil’s soothing effects may relieve pain and tension. The better you feel, the easier it is to get to sleep — and the more rest you get, the easier it is for your body to heal.

Muscle tension: Muscle tension comes right along with chronic pain. CBD oil may help reduce the soreness and physical exhaustion you feel. If proven to work, this could reduce the need for synthetic prescription muscle relaxers and pain medications.

PTSD and depression: Finally, CBD oil may help people recover from PTSD and depression symptoms. Like anxiety, CBD’s effects on your brain’s neurotransmitters and serotonin receptors may have a soothing effect. Seniors who suffer from chronic pain know that the day-in, day-out physical suffering often produces a similar emotional effect. In the future, CBD may be an accepted and non-addictive way to treat those symptoms.

While Medicare doesn’t cover CBD oil, it does cover a number of other healthcare providers, medications and treatments. To learn more about the Medicare coverage and benefits you’re eligible for, reach out to us today!

This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition.

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