Navigating the world of Medicare can sometimes feel like solving a mystery. With so many different plans and options, it’s easy to get lost in the details. While Medicare is a fantastic program that provides essential health benefits to millions of Americans, it doesn’t cover everything. If you’re considering Humana Medicare or AARP Medicare, it’s important to know what these plans do and do not cover. Let’s dive into some common misconceptions about Medicare coverage.

1. Routine dental care

Medicare doesn’t typically cover routine dental care. This means regular check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and dentures are usually out-of-pocket expenses. Some Medicare Advantage plans, like those offered by Humana Medicare, might include dental benefits, but it’s crucial to check the specifics. If maintaining that pearly white smile is important, consider supplemental dental insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan with dental coverage.

2. Vision care

Regular eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses are also not covered by standard Medicare. For those who wear glasses or contacts, this can be a significant expense. AARP Medicare Advantage plans sometimes offer vision benefits, so it’s worth exploring these options if eye care is a priority. Remember, Medicare will cover eye exams related to certain medical conditions like diabetes, but routine care is generally not included.

3. Hearing aids

Hearing aids can be a lifeline for those with hearing loss, but unfortunately, they are not covered by Medicare. The cost of hearing aids can be quite steep, often reaching into the thousands of dollars. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer hearing aid coverage, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare plans if this is a concern. Keep your ears open for the best deals!

4. Long-term care

Many people assume that Medicare will cover long-term care, but this is not the case. Long-term care, such as nursing home stays or in-home care for chronic illnesses, is not covered. Medicare will cover short-term stays in skilled nursing facilities for rehabilitation, but not long-term custodial care. For those concerned about the costs of long-term care, it might be worth considering long-term care insurance or other financial planning options.

5. Cosmetic surgery

While Medicare covers surgeries deemed medically necessary, it does not cover cosmetic surgery. Procedures that are purely for enhancing appearance, such as facelifts or tummy tucks, will need to be paid out-of-pocket. If the surgery is necessary due to an injury or to improve function, Medicare may consider coverage, but it’s always best to check with your provider first.

6. Overseas health care

Planning a trip abroad? It’s important to know that Medicare typically does not cover health care services received outside the United States. There are some exceptions, such as emergencies in Canada or Mexico when traveling between the U.S. and another country, but these are rare. Travelers might want to consider travel insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan that offers international coverage.

7. Alternative therapies

Alternative treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and naturopathy are generally not covered by Medicare. While some forms of chiropractic care may be covered if deemed medically necessary, most alternative therapies are not. If these treatments are part of your health regimen, you’ll likely need to pay out-of-pocket or find a supplemental plan that offers coverage.

Understanding what Medicare does and doesn’t cover can help avoid unexpected expenses and ensure that all health care needs are met. While Medicare provides essential services, it’s not all-encompassing. Exploring options like Humana Medicare and AARP Medicare Advantage plans can offer additional benefits that fill in the gaps. Always read the fine print and compare plans to find the one that best suits your needs. Happy health planning!