The 1972 Amendments extended coverage to disabled beneficiaries. As a result, beneficiaries
in the child-bearing years are included for the first time. Reasonable and necessary
services associated with pregnancy are covered and reimbursable under Medicare. The
increased possibility of illness or injury which accompanies this condition is well
recognized, and medical supervision is required throughout pregnancy and for a brief
period beyond. Skilled medical management is appropriate throughout the events of
pregnancy, beginning with diagnosis of the condition, continuing through delivery,
and ending after the necessary postnatal care. Similarly, in the event of termination
of pregnancy, regardless of whether terminated spontaneously or whether abortion is
induced for therapeutic or elective reasons, the need for skilled medical management
and/or medical services is equally as important as in those cases carried to full
term.
After the infant is delivered and is a separate individual, items and services furnished
to the infant cannot be covered and reimbursed under the program on the basis of the
parent's eligibility.