Medicare, a federally funded health insurance program, provides certain coverage for specific groups—typically those over the age of 65. Medicare coverage is separated into multiple parts, each addressing the different aspects of healthcare. While it does cover most expenses, there are a few things that won’t be covered by the health insurance plan. There are other plans as well, such as United Health Care, ssa medicare, and aarp plans for seniors. Before you make any decisions about the healthcare plan that is right for you, be sure to understand the limitations. Here are the things that medicare doesn’t cover:

1. Routine dental exams and treatment

Medicare coverage excludes routine dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Exceptions exist, particularly when dental care is necessary for a surgery covered by Medicare. For instance, if a tooth extraction is required before heart surgery, Medicare will cover it. Dental care related to injuries, such as jaw fractures, is also covered. However, for regular dental care, individuals will need to cover costs personally or consider obtaining an individual dental insurance plan.

2. Routine eye exams

Medicare Part A and Part B, focusing on hospital and medical insurance, exclude coverage for routine eye exams, including those for glasses or contact lenses. An exception exists if an individual has diabetes and requires a routine eye exam for monitoring purposes. Similarly, Medicare covers cataract surgery. Nevertheless, for routine vision care, individuals need to cover the costs personally or consider obtaining an individual vision insurance plan. Some Medicare Advantage plans may include routine eye exams as part of their benefits.

3. Prescription Drugs:

Medicare Part A and Part B do not encompass prescription drug coverage. However, Medicare offers a separate prescription drug plan known as Medicare Part D. Individuals can enroll in Part D with original Medicare or through a Medicare Advantage plan inclusive of drug coverage. Participation in Medicare Part D involves paying a premium, a deductible, and copays for prescribed medications, with the specific costs contingent on the chosen plan and required medications.

4. Hearing Aids:

Medicare does not cover the cost of hearing aids or routine hearing exams. Exceptions apply if a medical condition, such as Meniere’s disease, is the cause of hearing loss; in such cases, Medicare covers the diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition. Generally, individuals are responsible for the expenses related to hearing aids and routine exams, though veterans or those with low income may seek assistance from the Veterans Administration or state assistance programs.

5. Long-Term Care

Medicare does not provide coverage for long-term care, including nursing home care. Additionally, Medicare does not cover custodial care for individuals who are unable to care for themselves, involving tasks like bathing, dressing, and bathroom use. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer long-term care coverage, but original Medicare does not. Those requiring long-term care must purchase a separate insurance policy specifically for this purpose.