Services Medicare Doesn't Cover
It is important not to be caught off guard in regards to deductibles and co-pays associated with Original Medicare. Below are a few things that Original Medicare does not cover.
Hearing aids
Medicare covers ear-related medical conditions, but original Medicare and Supplements (Medigap) plans don’t pay for routine hearing tests or hearing aids. A great way to receive assistance for hearing aids is to look at Medicare Advantage plans. Several advantage plans include hearing or hearing aid benefits.
Dental work
Original Medicare doesn’t cover dental care such as routine checkups or big-ticket items: dentures or root canals. Nor do Medigap policies. Medicare Advantage can be a great alternative to have your dental work covered. There are also stand alone dental plans and dental discount plans available for an additional cost.
Opticians and eye exams
While Medicare does cover expenses such as cataract surgery and glaucoma screenings, it doesn’t cover routine eye exams, glasses or contact lenses. You can buy stand alone vision coverage or enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes vision coverage.
Overseas care
Original Medicare and most Advantage plans offer virtually no coverage for medical costs incurred outside the U.S. except in an emergency situation. If you travel frequently, a Medigap policy may be a great option for you.
Podiatry and cosmetic surgery
Medicare doesn’t generally cover routine medical care for your feet, such as callus removal. Nor does it cover elective cosmetic surgery, such as face-lifts or tummy tucks. Several Medicare Advantage plans can assist in covering medical care for your feet.
Nursing home care
Medicare pays for limited stays in rehab facilities — for example, if you have a hip replacement and need inpatient physical therapy for several weeks. But if you were to become so frail or sick that you must move to an assisted living facility or nursing home, Medicare won’t cover your custodial costs. If you qualify for Medicaid, it can help fill in the gaps.
