2025 Medicare Coverage: Using Medicare in Another State or Abroad – What You Need to Know

If you are enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), your coverage extends anywhere within the United States, provided you receive care from doctors and hospitals that accept Medicare.

This nationwide coverage includes all 50 states plus U.S. territories such as American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Washington, DC, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

When it comes to Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage), your out-of-state benefits depend on whether in-network pharmacies are available near your travel destination. Coverage for Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) outside your home state varies by plan.

This guide explains how Medicare coverage functions across states and abroad and how to update your Medicare information if you relocate.

Using Medicare When Traveling Across the U.S.

Your Medicare benefits can differ based on your plan when you leave your home state.

Original Medicare (Part A & B)

Original Medicare covers you nationwide when you visit facilities and providers that accept Medicare payments.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plans)

Part D plans, offered by private insurers approved by Medicare, vary in pharmacy network coverage. Some plans provide nationwide access to in-network pharmacies, while others may limit coverage to specific regions.

Before traveling, confirm with your plan provider whether your prescription drug coverage is valid in your destination state.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Coverage outside your home state depends on your specific Medicare Advantage plan. Important factors to consider include:

• Whether your plan requires using a specific provider network (common in HMOs)
• If you can access out-of-network providers and what additional costs may apply

Visits to out-of-network providers might result in higher out-of-pocket expenses. Always verify your plan’s service area before traveling.

Medicare Coverage Outside the United States

Original Medicare offers limited coverage for emergency care abroad in specific circumstances, such as:

• Living in the U.S. with an emergency requiring treatment at the nearest foreign hospital closer than any U.S. hospital
• Experiencing a medical emergency while traveling directly between Alaska and another U.S. state through Canada
• Needing urgent care on a cruise ship within U.S. waters or near U.S. ports

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans must match Original Medicare’s coverage and may offer additional benefits, but overseas coverage varies by plan.

Medicare Part D

Prescription drugs purchased outside the U.S. are generally not covered under Part D plans.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Plans)

Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N cover 80% of emergency foreign travel medical costs up to plan limits.

How to Update Medicare When Moving Out of State

If you relocate to a new state, it’s essential to update your Medicare contact information promptly.

The fastest method is through the "My Profile" section on the Social Security Administration’s website. Registration is required and you’ll need your Social Security number, U.S. mailing address, and a valid email to create an account.

You may also update your details by calling the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 or visiting your local Social Security office.

Summary

Medicare coverage is generally valid across all U.S. states, but benefits and network access can vary based on your specific plan type. Overseas coverage is limited and largely applies to emergencies.

When moving out of state, promptly update your Medicare information through official Social Security channels to ensure uninterrupted service.

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