Knowing Medicare's gaps before you enroll prevents expensive surprises. Here is what Original Medicare leaves out.
What major services does Medicare exclude?
Original Medicare leaves out several big-ticket items. It does not cover routine dental care, dentures, routine eye exams, eyeglasses, hearing exams, or hearing aids. It excludes most long-term custodial care in nursing homes or at home. It does not pay for cosmetic surgery, most care received outside the United States, or routine foot care in most cases. And it never caps your annual out-of-pocket spending. These gaps can be significant, but they are fillable. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to learn how to cover the services that matter most to you.
How do I cover Medicare's gaps?
Each gap has a solution. A Part D plan covers prescription drugs. A Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) plan covers most of the deductibles and 20% coinsurance Original Medicare leaves, effectively capping your medical exposure. Some Medicare Advantage plans bundle dental, vision, and hearing extras. Standalone dental and vision policies are also available. Long-term care requires separate planning, such as long-term care insurance. The right combination depends on your needs and budget. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can help you close the gaps that matter to you, at no charge.