Coverage for blood pressure machines varies greatly by insurer and plan, with many private plans covering them through wellness benefits or as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) with a prescription, especially for high-risk conditions, while Original Medicare generally doesn't cover standard home monitors but might cover Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitors (ABPMs) in specific cases like white coat hypertension. Many Medicare Advantage plans offer allowances for these devices, and some state programs (like Medi-Cal Rx) cover them as pharmacy benefits.
For many individuals, the question of whether insurance covers blood pressure screenings depends on the specific policy and healthcare laws in your region. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the United States, preventive services like routine blood pressure checks often fall under essential benefits.
Use this service to find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks. You can get your blood pressure checked at a pharmacy without seeing a GP.
Generally, yes, high blood pressure (hypertension) is covered by most health insurance plans. Coverage typically includes doctor's visits for diagnosis and management, prescription medications to control blood pressure, and diagnostic tests to assess heart health and related conditions.
Unfortunately, Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not usually cover medication to treat high blood pressure. While Medicare Part B offers some prescription drug coverage, it has limited coverage of most drugs for chronic conditions, including high blood pressure. Learn more about Medicare Part B.
Yes, you need a prescription and proof of medical necessity from your healthcare provider in order to have a blood pressure monitor covered by Medicare.
Rarely, an individual with very high blood pressure may have symptoms. These symptoms might include shortness of breath, blurry vision or headache.
Not Sure Where to Start?
You can qualify for life insurance with high blood pressure. However, you may pay higher rates since life insurers must account for a higher risk level that this condition presents.
The Hello Heart program is offered at no cost to eligible members and includes a FREE blood pressure monitor that connects to an engaging app.
Stage 2 hypertension (American Classification): Hypertension stage 2 is defined as blood pressures consistently at a level of 140/90 mmHg or above. If you have blood pressure this high, your doctor will usually prescribe one or more blood pressure medications and recommend lifestyle changes.
Buy Home Blood Pressure Monitors with Comfortable Cuffs | Walgreens.
Blood pressure checks are provided free of charge if you are: An adult over the age of 40 who has not previously been diagnosed with hypertension. An adult under the age of 40 who has a recognised family history of hypertension.
Ask about "manufacturers' aid" or "patient assistance" programs. These are public and private programs that offer discounted or free medications. Your income and often your age will determine whether you can get them. And some programs require your health care professional to apply for you.
Beta blockers.
These medicines reduce the workload on the heart and widen the blood vessels. This helps the heart beat slower and with less force. Beta blockers include atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol-XL, Kapspargo sprinkle) and others.
Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include:
Here are some of the biggest Medicare mistakes to avoid:
If you don't get premium-free Part A, you pay up to $565 each month. If you don't buy Part A when you're first eligible for Medicare (usually when you turn 65), you might pay a penalty. Most people pay the standard Part B monthly premium amount ($202.90 in 2026).