As you turn 65 and start utilizing your Medicare, you will find that while there are plenty of things your Medicare covers, there are things it doesn’t cover. If you are coming off an employee health care plan, you might be surprised to learn that Original Medicare, Parts A and B, don’t cover everything your employer plan did. This doesn’t mean you can’t get coverage for those things, it simply needs you need to do the research to learn what your plan covers, and what your options are to get select benefits outside of that.

Here are a few things that Medicare won’t cover:

  1. Prescription drugs. Most seniors take at least one prescription drug. This can be problematic considering prescriptions are not covered under Original Medicare. As you know, prescriptions are expensive, so these costs can add up very quickly. So what can you do? Check out the Part D Prescription Plans. Additionally, many Medicare Advantage plans also include some type of prescription coverage.
  2. International travel healthcare. If you plan to visit all those amazing places you’ve kept on your bucket list when you retire, this can be very concerning. Any medical needs when traveling outside of the US will not be covered, not even emergencies. The only exceptions will be if traveling to Alaska and passing through Canada or if you live near the border and a foreign hospital is closer than one in the U.S. What option do you have? Many Medigap plans include some coverage for overseas travel, though the coverage amount is capped. Another option is Medicare Advantage. Many of these plans will have some coverage for international travel. Finally, there are travel health policies you can purchase if you are leaving the country.
  3. Routine dental care. Did you know that as you age, your chances for root decay, oral infection, and dry mouth increases? This makes it even more important for seniors to continue routine dental care. Unfortunately, routine care isn’t covered. Neither are broken teeth, cavities and other needs. What are your options if you need or want dental? Check Medicare Advantage plans that will include dental care options including crowns, extractions, fillings and more.
  4. Routine vision. It’s no secret that as we age, our vision ages, too. The vast majority of seniors wear glasses or will need eyeware. However, Original Medicare won’t cover regular eye exams, contacts, or glasses. If diagnosed with cataracts, it will cover the initial surgery and the first pair of corrective lenses, but anything moving forward would not be covered.
  5. Hearing care. Finally, it’s important to discuss hearing care coverage. Routine care here is also not covered, including hearing aids. You may be able to find a Medicare Advantage Plan that will allow for coverage of routine hearing care, including hearing aid devices.

You will find that there are many benefits you need that might not be covered on Medicare. This is why it is so important to find the right plan for you and your unique needs. If you need help finding the right plan for you, give us a call. It’s completely free to speak with us.