Fair Square Medicare Wordmark

Does Medicare Cover SIBO Testing?

SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) symptoms stock photo

By Daniel Petkevich

Dec 1, 2022

Read this before you buy a SIBO test

Medicare offers coverage for many different tests and treatments. Unfortunately, a SIBO test is not one of the tests covered by Medicare. So what options do you have instead? Let's find out.

Speak with a Medicare Advocate

Talk to one of our Licensed Medicare Agents today to find the right plans for you.

What is SIBO?

SIBO, or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, is a condition in which bacteria that are usually found in the large intestine (colon) overgrow and migrate to the small intestine. This can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation and/or diarrhea.

How is SIBO diagnosed?

SIBO is typically diagnosed with a breath test that measures the amount of gas produced by bacteria in your small intestine. This type of testing is simple and non-invasive and can provide an accurate diagnosis of SIBO.

Does Medicare cover SIBO testing?

Unfortunately, Medicare does not currently cover SIBO testing. Medicare does not consider it medically necessary and, therefore, will not cover the cost of testing.

If you have questions about your specific insurance plan and what it covers, it is best to contact the provider directly. You may also be able to use out-of-pocket funds for this test. Speak with your doctor about the best option for you.

How much is a SIBO test?

The cost of a SIBO test can vary depending on where you get it done and which type of test is used. Generally, the price ranges from $250 to $600.

If you think you may have symptoms of SIBO, speak with your doctor about the best testing option for you. They will be able to help you get started and recommend treatment.

What are the treatment options for SIBO?

If your SIBO test is positive, your doctor will likely recommend a combination of dietary changes and antibiotics to help manage the condition. These treatments are not typically covered by Medicare either, but you may be able to use out-of-pocket funds if you don’t have other insurance coverage. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer stipends to help with costs such as these. Check with your plan provider to see how you could help treat your SIBO.

How can you prevent SIBO from happening in the first place?

Though there is no guarantee that you can entirely prevent SIBO, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing it. These include the following:

  • Eating a balanced diet

  • Avoiding processed and refined foods

  • Getting regular exercise

  • Managing stress levels

  • Paying attention to any food sensitivities or intolerances.

Probiotics may also be helpful in reducing your risk of SIBO.

If you have any further questions about SIBO or its treatment options, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider for more information and personalized advice.

Conclusion

If you suspect that you have SIBO and need medical care, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to discuss diagnosis and treatment options. Although Medicare does not cover SIBO testing, there are still options available to help accurately diagnose this condition. For testing and treatment, remember to speak with your doctor first. This content is for informational purposes only. Call one of our Fair Square Medicare experts today for any questions about your Medicare plan.

Speak with a Medicare Advocate

Talk to one of our Licensed Medicare Agents today to find the right plans for you.

Recommended Articles

Heart on Heart Rhythm Background Concept stock photo

Does Medicare Cover the WATCHMAN Procedure?

Dec 1, 2022

doctor consulting their patient stock image

Does Medicare Cover the Urolift Procedure?

Dec 6, 2022

Cover image

Fair Square Bulletin: We're Revolutionizing Medicare

Apr 27, 2023

Enroll in Social Security step-by-step with the help of Fair Square stock image

How to Enroll in Social Security

Apr 28, 2023

Electrocardiograph with pacemaker stock photo

How Much Does a Pacemaker Cost with Medicare?

Nov 21, 2022

Cover image

Saving Money with Alternative Pharmacies & Discount Programs

Feb 1, 2024

woman working from home with a headset on stock image

How Do Medicare Agents Get Paid?

Apr 12, 2023

Saving money against a stopwatch stock image

What is the 8-Minute Rule on Medicare?

Dec 21, 2022

Modern endoscope in hands of experienced medical worker stock photo

How Does Medicare Cover Colonoscopies?

Dec 27, 2022

Unrecognizable person undergoing surgery in the clinic stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Robotic Surgery?

Nov 28, 2022

Dames Point Bridge in Jacksonville, Florida stock image

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Jacksonville

Mar 3, 2023

plastic surgeons standing over a patient stock image

Does Medicare Cover Cosmetic Surgery?

Nov 28, 2022

various cartoon scenarios showing long term care stock photo

Which Medigap Policies Provide Coverage for Long-Term Care?

Sep 16, 2022

Caucasian nurse holding spine model against the patients backs. Clinic interior. stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Kyphoplasty?

Dec 9, 2022

Medigap stock image

What Is Medical Underwriting for Medigap?

Apr 14, 2023

Hepatitis C stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Hepatitis C Treatment?

Nov 22, 2022

Kansas farm stock photo

Medicare Savings Programs in Kansas

Mar 22, 2023

Cover image

Should You Work With A Remote Medicare Agent?

Sep 20, 2023

More of our articles

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Philadelphia

14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Nashville

14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Seattle

14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Washington, D.C.

2024 Cost of Living Adjustment

Building the Future of Senior Healthcare

Can I Change Medicare Advantage Plans Any Time? | Medicare Plans

Can Medicare Advantage Plans Deny Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions?

Denied Coverage? What to Do When Your Carrier Says No

Does Medicare Cover Abortion Services?

Does Medicare Cover Bladder Sling Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Cataract Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Chiropractic Visits?

Does Medicare Cover Driving Evaluations?

Does Medicare Cover Exercise Physiology?

Does Medicare Cover Hoarding Cleanup?

Does Medicare Cover Hypnotherapy?

Does Medicare Cover Jakafi?

Does Medicare Cover Ketamine Infusion for Depression?

Does Medicare Cover Kidney Stone Removal?

Does Medicare Cover Krystexxa?

Does Medicare Cover LVAD Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Mental Health?

Does Medicare Cover Nuedexta?

Does Medicare Cover Physicals & Blood Work?

Does Medicare Cover PTNS?

Does Medicare Cover RSV Vaccines?

Does Medicare Cover Scleral Lenses?

Does Medicare Cover Shock Wave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

Does Medicare Cover Stair Lifts?

Does Medicare Cover Tymlos?

Does Medicare Cover Urodynamic Testing?

Does Medicare Cover Wart Removal?

Does Medicare Cover Xiafaxan?

Does Medicare Cover Zilretta?

Does Medicare Pay for Antivenom?

Does Medicare Pay for Funeral Expenses?

Explaining the Different Enrollment Periods for Medicare

Finding the Best Dental Plans for Seniors

Finding the Best Vision Plans for Seniors

Gap Health Insurance: The Secret Sidekick to Your High-Deductible Plan

How Are Medicare Star Ratings Determined?

How Much Does Medicare Cost?

How Much Does Medicare Part A Cost in 2025?

How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost in 2025?

How Much Does Open Heart Surgery Cost with Medicare?

How to Apply for Medicare?

How to Become a Medicare Agent

How to Compare Medigap Plans in 2025

How to Deduct Medicare Expenses from Your Taxes

Is Balloon Sinuplasty Covered by Medicare?

Is Botox Covered by Medicare?

Is Displacement Affecting Your Medicare Coverage?

Is Emsella Covered by Medicare?

Is Fair Square Medicare Legitimate?

Is Gainswave Covered by Medicare?

Is HIFU Covered by Medicare?

Is Vitrectomy Surgery Covered by Medicare?

Last Day to Change Your Medicare Part D Plan

Medicare Advantage MSA Plans

Medicare Deductibles Resetting in 2025

Medicare Guaranteed Issue Rights by State

Medigap Plan N vs. Plan G — Which One Fits You in 2025?

Moving? Here’s What Happens to Your Medicare Coverage

Welcome to Fair Square's First Newsletter

What is a Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman?

What Is the Medicare Birthday Rule in Nevada?

What to Do When Your Doctor Doesn't Take Medicare

What to Do When Your Doctor Leaves Your Network

Why Is Medicare So Confusing?

Will Medicare Cover Dental Implants?

Will Medicare Cover it?

Your Medicare One-Stop-Shop

Your guide to Medicare Parts A & B, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap. 100% free.

Get the Fair Square Bulletin

Medicare savings tips, helpful guides, and more.

About

Medicare 101

Current Clients

Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans

Fair Square 2025

Terms of Use
Notice of Privacy Practices

Virgil Insurance Agency, LLC (DBA Fair Square Medicare) and www.fairsquaremedicare.com are privately owned and operated by Help Button Inc. Medicare supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance. A licensed agent/producer may contact you. Medicare Supplement insurance is available to those age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and, in some states, to those under age 65 eligible for Medicare due to disability or End-Stage Renal disease. Virgil Insurance Agency is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO SNP and PFFS organizations and stand-alone PDP prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. The plans we represent do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Plan availability varies by region and state. For a complete list of available plans please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov. © 2025 Help Button Inc

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

MULTIPLAN_FairSquareMedicare_01062022_M

Fair Square Medicare

FSM symbol - 50