Question:
Why doesn't insurance pay for the B-12 shot?

I have been getting my B-12 injection from my surgeon's office every 3 months. The insurance will not pay for the shots. Just wondering why?    — Margaret S. (posted on June 12, 2001)

June 12, 2001
It just depends on the policy you have. My insurance pays for my vitamins if they're perscription, just like any other meds.
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 12, 2001
I have the same problem..and from what I understand because of the way the code is...which is obesity...we all know they dont want to cover those things. But if you get your doc to give you a prescription for the b12 you can get in from you reg doc and it will be covered.
   — Tracey W.

June 12, 2001
My Dr wrote me a prescription for the B-12 and a 2 years supply was less than 5.00. I take it on each visit and I get my shot. The Drs office said they would teach me how to give myself the shot in a couple months.
   — Susan B.

June 12, 2001
Couple of possibilities. One is that the shot is being billed with an office visit in which case the insurance feels the office visit payment includes the shot and the shot should not be billed in addition. Second, the diagnosis code is incorrect. It should NEVER be obesity. You are getting the shot for anemia not obesity. Third, your insurance just doesn't cover any injections. I doubt that is the answer if you still have Medicaid. Good luck.
   — Shannon S.

June 12, 2001
Some ins just will not pay for a vitamin, no matter WHAT. My B12 for 90 days was 2.79 and the vet sold me the syringes for .25 each. I can do this! And my PCP's office taught me how to shoot myself. It is SO minimal.
   — vitalady