If you have an end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you may be eligible for Medicare Part A. Medicare Part A can help pay for kidney dialysis and kidney transplant services. 

Eligibility and more

You are eligible for Medicare Part A no matter how old you are if your kidneys no longer work, you need regular dialysis or have had a kidney transplant and meet one of the following requirements:

  • You have worked the required amount of time under Social Security or as a government employee.
  • You have worked the required amount of time under the Railroad Retirement Board.
  • You are receiving or are eligible for Social Security or Railroad Retirement cash benefits.
  • You are the spouse or dependent child of a person who has met one of the requirements above.

Eligibility for Medicare Part A due to ESRD, means you are eligible for Part B. You can enroll in Part A and Part B by contacting your local SSA office or by calling Social Security. Your doctor or dialysis center will need to provide proof of your ESRD diagnosis and type of treatment. 

This guide from Medicare provides more information on Medicare coverage of kidney dialysis and kidney transplant services