Medicare is a government-run health insurance program that provides coverage for Americans who are 65 and older or have a disability. While Medicare covers a lot of medical expenses, there are certain things that it doesn’t cover—like cosmetic procedures, outpatient prescription drugs, and many new treatments and alternative treatments for chronic conditions, like cancer. Many policyholders choose additional coverage from well-known providers like AARP, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Kaiser Permanente, and Mutual of Omaha to fill the gaps left by standard health plans. Secondary or dual insurance — where one plan acts as primary and another provides backup coverage — can help reduce out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, co-pays, and services not included in the main plan. These supplemental options often extend to benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and long-term care, offering added financial protection and peace of mind when unexpected expenses arise. Even with these added protections, it’s essential to understand exactly what Medicare itself doesn’t include to avoid costly surprises later.
Here are things that Medicare doesn’t cover:

1. Routine eye exams

Regular eye checkups are essential, especially as we age. Unfortunately, Medicare will not pay for routine eye checks. This is because Medicare views these as preventive care, and preventive care is not covered under Medicare. Taking advantage of free or low-cost vision screenings available through community organizations or your local health department is crucial.

2. Routine dental exams

Dental care is key to good overall health, yet routine dental exams are not covered under Medicare. This is because, like routine eye checks, Medicare views dental exams as preventive care. In addition, dental cleanings, x-rays, and fillings are also not covered because they are considered preventive care. However, Medicare will cover some dental services, such as extractions and oral surgery. Also, if you have a medical condition such as cancer or heart disease, Medicare may cover dental services related to your condition.

3. Hearing aids

Ear exams, hearing tests, and hearing aids are vital for seniors experiencing age-related hearing loss. However, Medicare will not cover the cost of such aids or any related services. This is because Medicare views them as cosmetic services, and cosmetic services are not covered under Medicare. Many organizations and charities assist seniors if they need help paying for such aid. Additionally, some states have programs that help seniors pay for such aids.

4. Long term care

Seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating may require long-term care. This is a temporary service to help seniors recover from an illness or injury. However, such care is not covered under Medicare. Such care is not only costly, but it is also not considered to be medically necessary. Many options are available if you require such care, such as insurance policies, government programs, and private pay. In some cases, this care might be offered through your employer.

5. Prescription drugs

While Medicaid does pay for drugs prescribed by a physician, most drugs are not covered by Medicare. These include non-FDA-approved drugs, experimental drugs, and vitamins. Also, Medicare does not cover the expenses of over-the-counter medications. Ask your physician if any generic or over-the-counter options might be just as effective but much cheaper.

6. Overseas health care

When you travel out of the U.S., Medicare will not cover for any required health care services. This is because Medicare is only available to those who reside in the United States. There are some exceptions, such as if you are traveling to Canada for emergency care. In such cases, you might be able to receive reimbursement for the cost of such care. However, it is important to note that Medicare does not cover any health care services you receive in another country, even for a legitimate medical reason.

7. Dentures

Like other dental services, dentures are not covered under Medicare. They are considered cosmetic services, and Medicare does not cover the price of such services. However, if you require dentures due to a medical condition, such as cancer or heart disease, Medicare might cover the cost of such services.

Overall, there are many healthcare services that Medicare does not cover. It is essential to be aware of such services to plan accordingly. Many options are available to help you pay for such services, such as insurance policies, government programs, and private pay. In some cases, this care might be offered through your employer. Be sure to explore all of your options so that you can get the care that you need without breaking the bank.