An appeal is an action you can take if you disagree with a coverage or payment decision by Medicare or your Medicare plan.

For example, you can appeal if Medicare or your plan denies:
• A request for a health care service, supply, item, or drug you think Medicare should cover.
• A request for payment of a health care service, supply, item, or drug you already got.
• A request to change the amount you must pay for a health care service, supply, item, or drug.

If you have Original Medicare, start by looking at your “Medicare Summary Notice” (MSN). You must file your appeal by the date in the MSN. If you missed the deadline for appealing, you may still file an appeal and get a decision if you can show good cause for missing the deadline.

If you have a Medicare health plan, start the appeal process through your plan. Follow the directions in the plan’s initial denial notice and plan materials.