Medicare coverage
Does Medicare Cover Clinical Trials?
Only in certain cases. Medicare covers some costs for certain clinical research studies.
Only in certain cases: Parts A and B
Source: Medicare.gov, Clinical research studies, checked October 23, 2026.
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Coverage at a glance
- Covered?
- Only in certain cases
- Which part
- Parts A and B
- What you pay
- After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
- Part B deductible 2026
- $283 a year (CMS). Part B premium $202.90 a month.
- Part A deductible 2026
- $1,736 per benefit period (CMS)
- Medicare.gov page
- Clinical research studies
Description
Clinical research studies test different types of medical care, including new treatments, to find out how well they work and if they’re safe. For example, a clinical research study might test how well a new cancer drug works.
From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.
Coverage details
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) cover some costs, like office visits and tests.
From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.
Costs
You may pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, depending on the treatment you get. The Part B deductible may apply.
From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.
National Coverage Determinations
- NCD 310.1: Routine Costs in Clinical Trials
Version 3, effective May 27, 2024
An NCD is the national rule CMS writes for when Medicare pays for an item or service. Local coverage determinations (LCDs) from each Medicare contractor can add detail. Read the NCD text on the CMS site.
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Only in certain cases
- Does Medicare Cover Concierge Medicine?
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- Medicare Part B deductible 2027
- Part D out-of-pocket max 2027
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- 2027 Medicare plans by county
- Everything Medicare covers, A to Z
Questions
Does Medicare Cover Clinical Trials?
Only in certain cases. Medicare covers some costs for certain clinical research studies.
Which part of Medicare covers Clinical Trials?
Medicare.gov lists Clinical research studies under Parts A and B.
How much do you pay for Clinical Trials with Medicare?
Per Medicare.gov: After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
Is there a national coverage determination for Clinical Trials?
Yes. CMS NCD 310.1, Routine Costs in Clinical Trials, version 3, effective 2024-05-27.
Does a Medicare Advantage plan cover Clinical Trials?
Medicare Advantage plans must cover what Original Medicare covers and some offer extra benefits. Check the plan's Evidence of Coverage. Rivvi does not recommend plans.
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Does Medicare Cover Clinical Trials?
Only in certain cases. Medicare covers some costs for certain clinical research studies.
Checked against Medicare.gov 2026-10-23. Source: Rivvi