The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has taken over the Internet with everyone from Charlie Sheen to George W. Bush accepting the challenge. We thought with all of the attention on ALS, but little discussion on the actual disease, we’d take the time to explain what it is and how Medicare covers individuals with ALS.

What is ALS?

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. This causes muscle weakness, including swallowing and breathing, in later stages paralysis may occur. This weakening of the muscular system will eventually lead to death -with the majority of those diagnosed living for two to three years.

When is ALS Diagnosed?

Most cases of ALS are diagnosed between the age of 40 and 70, with the average age 55. The majority of cases are Caucasian men, however as people age their the disease is less discriminatory.

ALS Contributing Factors

There is a genetic factor that can play into being diagnosed with ALS, however only about 10% of all cases are hereditary. Another contributing factor is being a veteran, specifically Gulf War veterans who are twice as likely of developing the disease than non-Gulf War vets, according to ALSA.

Medicare ALS Coverage and Costs

All qualified persons of any age who are diagnosed with with ALS are enrolled in Medicare with its nationwide network of doctors and hospitals. Original Medicare 2014 out of pocket costs for ALS require deductibles, copays, and coinsurance to be covered by beneficiaries.

    For those with ALS of any age you may choose to enroll in Medicare Advantage to limit your out of pocket costs for ALS treatment, however it limits your doctors to a local network.
    For those with ALS over 65 you may choose to enroll in a Medigap plan that covers Medicare’s coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles while keeping the nationwide network. If you choose a comprehensive Medigap F plan you generally will not pay anything other than your monthly premium.

For further questions about ALS and Medicare call the number above.