Medicare Part A and Part B: What’s NOT Covered

While we may wish otherwise, Original Medicare does not cover everything. In fact, there are a lot of things that Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover. This is one of the main reasons that many older adults acquire Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) insurance, Part D prescription drug coverage, or a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan. In any case, we will cover some of the most common treatments and services that are NOT covered by Medicare Part A and Part B.

What Is NOT Covered By Medicare Part A or Part B?

Needless to say, there are literally thousands of treatments, services, devices, and medications that are not covered under Medicare Part A and Part B. However, there are a few common things that many people need but are not covered by Original Medicare. Here are some of the most important things that Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover:

• Prescription drugs (excluding those used during inpatient hospital treatments)
• Long-term care
• Dental care
• Vision care
• Hearing care
• Wellness check-ups
• Cosmetic surgery
• Acupuncture
• Routine foot care

As you can see, there are many things that Original Medicare does not cover. However, you can find insurance that will cover many of the services on this list. For example, a Part D plan covers both generic and name-brand prescription drugs. Alternatively, you can replace your Original Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan.

Most Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision, and hearing care, as well as an annual wellness check-up. However, most elective treatments (cosmetic surgery, acupuncture, etc.) are not covered under Medicare or private alternatives. Currently, you can shop for a Medicare Advantage plan until March 31st of this year. If you miss the cut-off, you will need to wait until the next open enrollment period in October.

What Do Medicare Part A and Part B Cover?

It’s also important to know what Medicare Part A and Part B do cover. First, Medicare Part A covers:

• Inpatient hospital care
• Skilled nursing facility care
• Hospice care
• Nursing home care
• Certain home healthcare

Alternatively, Medicare Part B covers the following:

• Doctor’s office visits
• Ambulance services
• Durable Medical Equipment (DME) like wheelchairs and walkers
• Mental health care
• Outpatient surgery
• Lab tests and bloodwork
• Some preventative care like flu shots, cancer screenings, and nutritional therapy

The Bottom Line

There are many things that Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. We are currently in the middle of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period. So, if you want to shop for a different plan and get greater coverage, now is your chance!

If you’re interested in learning more about what Medicare Part A and Part B do and don’t cover, contact Time for 65’s licensed partnered agents today. Fill out this form or give us a call today to see how we can help.