Dental, Vision, and Hearing

 

Under Original Medicare, coverage for dental, vision, and hearing expenses is typically limited to situations connected to inpatient or outpatient medical needs. We can provide a detailed breakdown of what Original Medicare covers in each category, and if additional insurance is required for comprehensive coverage. The great news is that we are here to help you secure any additional coverage you may need!

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Medicare and dental insurance

 

Medicare's dental coverage is primarily designed to protect your overall health, with a focus on supporting the delivery of other Medicare-covered medical treatments. Unfortunately, routine dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, full or partial dentures, and most tooth extractions are not covered by Original Medicare. To obtain coverage for these services, you would need to consider a Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental benefits or explore standalone dental insurance plans specifically tailored to dental care.

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Does Medicare include vision insurance?

 

Original Medicare typically does not cover routine eye exams, the cost of glasses, or contact lenses. An exception is made when an intraocular lens is implanted during cataract surgery, which Medicare Part B may help cover. Part B can also assist with one pair of glasses or one set of contact lenses provided by an ophthalmologist after this surgery. However, it's important to note that this benefit is limited to a standard pair of eyeglasses and is available only once in a lifetime. Any additional expenses for more expensive frames would be your responsibility. Part B also covers glaucoma screenings annually, but only for individuals at high risk, such as diabetics, those with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans aged 50 and older, and Hispanic Americans aged 65 and older.

Part B also covers eye prosthetics for patients who have lost an eye due to birth abnormalities, trauma, or surgical removal, with the possibility of replacement every five years. Additionally, Part B covers the diagnosis and treatment of various eye diseases and disorders.

If you require frequent eye exams, multiple pairs of eyeglasses or contact lenses, or desire frames that go beyond the standard options, you may want to consider an affordable standalone vision plan as your best option. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also offer suitable vision coverage, but for specific plan details, it's advisable to consult with a certified insurance broker.

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How Medicare and hearing insurance coexist?

 

Original Medicare does not provide coverage for hearing aids. However, some hearing tests, including diagnostic hearing and balance tests, are covered under Medicare Part B. To access these screenings, you typically need a referral from your primary care physician. If, after these tests, it is determined that you require further treatment, Part B will cover a portion of the costs.

While some individuals may find coverage through Medicare Supplements, this coverage doesn't begin until Original Medicare has paid its portion. Consequently, hearing aids are unlikely to be covered. For hearing aids and related treatments like routine exams, you would need to consider a standalone dental, vision, and hearing plan. To gain a better understanding of the specifics of a Medicare Advantage plan with hearing benefits, it is recommended to consult with a certified  insurance broker for additional information.

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