Shingles risk increases with age
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and is more common and often more painful for older adults.
Drug coverage is usually the key
Shingles vaccine coverage is commonly connected to Part D prescription drug coverage or drug coverage inside a Medicare Advantage plan.
Check the pharmacy and plan rules
Since 2023, recommended vaccines like Shingrix are $0 with no deductible for people with Medicare drug coverage (a Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage) — one of the changes from the federal Inflation Reduction Act.