Wondering about the difference between an intermittent catheter and an indwelling catheter? For most, it comes down to a single question: Does it come out after each use, or does it stay in place?
And the answer doesn’t only determine which catheter you may need for daily use, but it can also impact what your insurance plan covers.
If you were just prescribed a catheter, or you are comparing notes before a conversation with your provider, it’s important to know the differences between catheter types (and how to make sure you are receiving the correct supplies).
Here’s what you need to know!
Not started the insurance process yet? Our guide on getting insurance-covered catheter supplies explains what qualifies and what documentation you will need.
What Is an Intermittent Catheter?
An intermittent catheter is a single-use catheter. You insert the catheter to drain your bladder, then remove it and throw it away after one use.
You’ll use a new intermittent catheter each time, as many times a day as your provider prescribes. For many people, that means several times daily on a set schedule.
Because nothing stays in your body between uses, this option is often chosen when someone can manage their own catheterization routine or has a caregiver who can help with it.
You’ll often find two common variations when it comes to intermittent catheters:
- A coudé tip catheter has a slightly curved tip. It helps navigate anatomical obstacles like an enlarged prostate or urethral scarring (particularly when a straight catheter can’t pass through easily)
- A closed-system catheter comes with its own self-contained collection bag built in. This allows urine to drain directly into it. These catheters are popular for travel and for wheelchair users, as there is no separate container to manage.
What Is an Indwelling (Foley) Catheter?
An indwelling catheter, often referred to as a Foley catheter, works a bit differently from a single-use, intermittent option.
An indwelling catheter stays in your bladder continuously, held in place by a small balloon. The catheter then drains into an external collection bag rather than being removed after each use.
Your doctor or prescribing physician will give you a schedule for changing your catheter, and most recommend changing it at least every three months.
The longer it stays in, the higher the risk of a urinary tract infection or other less-common complications. That’s part of why indwelling catheters are managed on a different schedule than intermittent ones.
An indwelling catheter is often the choice when someone cannot manage intermittent self-catheterization or needs continuous drainage for a longer stretch of time, whether that is temporary or ongoing.
Intermittent vs. Indwelling Catheters at a Glance
Not sure which type applies to you? Here’s a side-by-side look at how each one works and what it may mean for your coverage.
| Catheter Type | How It’s Used | How Often It’s Changed | Typically Chosen When | What Medicare Covers | What Medicaid Covers |
| Intermittent catheters | Inserted to drain the bladder, then removed and thrown away after each use. | A new catheter each time, as many times a day as your provider prescribes. | You can manage your own catheterization routine (or have a caregiver who can help with it). | Covers up to 200 single-use catheters a month, with the exact number driven by how often catheterization is prescribed. | Varies by state. There is no single number that applies everywhere. |
| Indwelling (Foley) catheters | Stays in the bladder continuously. It drains into an external bag rather than being removed after each use. | Typically changed at least every three months (per your physician’s schedule) | You cannot manage intermittent self-catheterization or need continuous drainage for a longer stretch of time | Covers one catheter a month for routine maintenance. | Varies by state. There is no single number that applies everywhere. |
Information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Local Coverage Determination (LCD): Urological Supplies (L33803).
How Does a Provider Decide Which Type You Need?
Fortunately, you don’t have to figure out which catheter is right for you. That’s the job of your provider.
But their decision is usually guided by need and their own clinical judgment:
- Do you need a catheter for a temporary issue or a more long-term solution?
- Do you have the ability to self-catheterize?
- Are there any other underlying conditions that could interfere with your ability to use a catheter?
If you aren’t sure why you were prescribed a particular type of catheter, it’s a good idea to bring up your questions with your provider. They can help you understand their decision-making and answer any questions you may have.
What Does Insurance Cover for Each Type of Catheter?
Catheter coverage looks different for each type.
Medicare Catheter Coverage
- Medicare covers up to 200 single-use intermittent catheters a month. The exact number will depend on how often catheterization is prescribed.
- Indwelling catheters are covered differently, typically at one catheter per month for routine maintenance.
Medicaid Catheter Coverage
- Medicaid varies by state for both catheter types, so there is no single number that applies everywhere.
If you want the full breakdown of how these monthly limits work, including what happens if you need more than your plan allows, you can learn more in our coverage guide here.
However, you shouldn’t have to stress about which plan you have and what’s covered. That’s where having the best catheter supplier matters.
Here at UroStat, we can help you determine your coverage eligibility and verify exactly what your plan covers, so you are not left guessing.
Not Sure Which Type You Need? We’ll Help You Find Out
Not sure what you need (or what’s covered) when it comes to catheters?
Whether you have questions about an intermittent catheter, an indwelling catheter, or what your plan actually covers, we are here to help you sort it out.
Call UroStat today at 888-845-8698, or check your eligibility online to talk through what your provider has prescribed and what your plan may cover.
You care for your health. We will take care of the rest.