Medicare & Dental, Vision, and Hearing: What’s Covered?

When it comes to healthcare coverage, many Medicare beneficiaries are surprised to learn that routine dental, vision, and hearing services are not fully covered by Original Medicare. These services are essential to maintaining overall health, yet gaps in coverage can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. Here’s what you need to know about what Medicare does and does not cover and how you can fill in the gaps.

Does Original Medicare Cover Dental, Vision, and Hearing?

Dental Coverage

• Not Covered: Routine dental care, including cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, dentures, and implants.

• Covered: Some medically necessary dental services, such as jaw reconstruction after an accident or extractions required before radiation therapy.

Vision Coverage

• Not Covered: Routine eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses.

• Covered: Eye exams for those with diabetes, glaucoma screenings for high-risk individuals, and cataract surgery (including one pair of corrective lenses after surgery).

Hearing Coverage

• Not Covered: Routine hearing exams, hearing aids, and fittings.

• Covered: Diagnostic hearing and balance exams if ordered by a doctor for a medical condition.

  
  

How to Get Coverage for Dental, Vision, and Hearing

If you need coverage beyond what Original Medicare provides, here are some options to consider:

1. Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans

• Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision, and hearing benefits.

• Coverage varies, so compare plans carefully to ensure they meet your specific needs.

2. Standalone Insurance Plans

• You can purchase separate dental, vision, and hearing plans from private insurers.

• These plans often provide more comprehensive coverage than Medicare Advantage.

3. Discount Programs

• Some organizations offer membership-based discount programs for dental, vision, and hearing care.

• These are not insurance but can reduce costs for services and devices.

4. Medicaid and Other Assistance Programs

• If you qualify for Medicaid, you may receive additional dental, vision, and hearing benefits.

• Some state programs and nonprofit organizations offer assistance for low-income individuals.

  
  

Tips for Reducing Costs

• Use in-network providers if you have a Medicare Advantage plan.

• Look for bundled insurance plans that combine dental, vision, and hearing benefits at a lower rate.

• Take advantage of free screenings and exams offered by community health organizations.

• Compare prices for hearing aids and dental work, and ask about payment plans or financing options.

  
  

Conclusion

While Original Medicare does not provide routine dental, vision, and hearing coverage, there are ways to obtain the care you need. Exploring Medicare Advantage plans, private insurance, and assistance programs can help you stay on top of your health without unexpected financial burdens.

At Lindbergh and Associates, we can help you navigate your Medicare options and find the best coverage for your needs. Contact us today to explore your options!