Medicare AdvantageAdministrativeLow impact
Discuss Flu Shots and Other Vaccines With Our Members
HealthSpring·Provider News
Effective date
Aug 13, 2026
We identified it
Aug 14, 2026
Summary
HealthSpring Medicare Advantage is issuing a provider education initiative encouraging discussion of flu, pneumonia, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines with members. The policy clarifies that seasonal flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 vaccines are covered at no cost under Medicare Part B, while RSV and other vaccines may be covered under Medicare Part D depending on the member's benefit plan. This is informational guidance with no billing code changes or prior authorization requirements.
Action Required
By August 13, 2026: Providers should review this policy and incorporate vaccine discussion recommendations into patient encounters, particularly before flu season. Front-line staff should be aware that vaccine coverage is confirmed at no cost for Medicare Advantage members. No billing system changes or workflow modifications are required. Providers may optionally reference the CAHPS survey checklist and Stars Guidebook (accessible via Availity Essentials) to support quality measure performance related to flu vaccination documentation.