Medicare provides enrollees with many options to get the coverage that best suits their healthcare needs. Though Original Medicare covers most medically necessary services and supplies, your healthcare needs may require you to explore additional coverage options. For some services, such as dental care and vision care, Medicare provides limited coverage.
Fortunately, Medicare enrollees have options when it comes to obtaining additional coverage and reducing out-of-pocket costs. Standalone insurance plans, often referred to as ancillary insurance plans, provide coverage for services not covered by Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies, so plan availability may be limited by carrier and location. Medicare Cost plans and Medicare Advantage plans may also provide coverage for services not covered by Original Medicare.
Explore our resources below to learn more about how Medicare handles coverage for each of the following services and treatments:
Dental Coverage
Medicare provides limited coverage for dental care when it pertains to other medically necessary services such as getting dental services prior to an organ transplant. Standalone dental insurance plans are available to Medicare enrollees who want coverage for routine dental care such as cleanings, fillings, and more. Learn more about dental coverage options for individuals with Medicare.
Vision Coverage
Vision coverage under Medicare is limited to specific conditions and circumstances. Individuals who have a high risk of glaucoma or have diabetes will receive coverage for annual eye exams related to their conditions. Routine eye exams for individuals who wear glasses or contact lenses are not covered under Medicare. However, there are vision coverage options available. Learn more about the options available to Medicare enrollees for vision coverage.
Hearing Coverage
Hearing-related services and care have limited coverage under Medicare. Though Medicare doesn’t help pay for hearing aids, it will help pay for cochlear implants if you meet specific requirements. Learn more about which hearing services are covered and what coverage options Medicare enrollees have for hearing care.
Cancer Coverage
Medicare provides coverage for many cancer screening and preventative services. Additionally, most cancer treatments including chemotherapy and radiation therapy are covered under Medicare. There are options available to Medicare enrollees to supplement their coverage and reduce their out-of-pocket costs in the event of a cancer diagnosis.
Critical Illness Coverage
Critical illnesses, such as heart attacks and strokes can come with high healthcare costs. Many services and supplies related to treating critical illnesses are covered by Medicare. Even with Medicare coverage, out-of-pocket costs for these treatments can be high. Learn about options Medicare enrollees have to reduce their out-of-pocket costs when diagnosed with a critical illness.
