Medicare is a government-run national health insurance program that helps ease the financial burden of those aged 65 and older. If one chooses Medicare, the government partially pays off their healthcare bills if it meets the policy conditions. However, the plans can have some gaps in coverage, making it crucial for recipients to understand exactly what the program covers. Let’s take a look at the frequently asked questions regarding Medicare coverage:

What are the types of Medicare coverage?
Original Medicare is primarily of two types: Part A and Part B, covering hospital insurance and inpatient-outpatient services. Additionally, people can choose the optional Advantage Plan or Medicare private health plan. It is commonly known as Part C, and it offers alternate ways of receiving original Medicare benefits with different restrictions and costs. For additional coverage, one can opt for Plan D or Medigap.

What is no longer covered by Medicare?
Medicare Part A and B provide coverage for a variety of hospital and outpatient expenses but do not typically pay for the following four services:

Dental services like teeth cleaning or filling
Hearing aid
Contact lenses, routine vision check-ups, or eye treatments
Overseas care after six hours of traveling abroad

One can get additional private health insurance with a customized plan and monthly premium to cover the costs not covered by Medicare.

What does Medicare cover?
Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospitalization, certain home healthcare services, and skilled nursing care that is non-custodial. Part B, on the other hand, covers the cost of outpatient care, supplies like certain healthcare equipment, and diagnostic services like lab tests and X-rays. Additionally, Medicare covers doctor visits, ambulance services, mental health care, and clinical research. Moreover, many eligible users have expressed uncertainties about specific remedies covered under Medicare. One such treatment is Nurtec (Rimegepant) therapy for migraine headaches. About 59% of the Medicare treatment plans cover Nurtec. However, it is best to use manufacturer and pharmacy coupons to offset costs.

What are the services that Medicare Part A does not cover?
Medicare Part A is a premium-free service for people over 65. The plan, however, excludes the cost of any “under observation” care, private room in the hospital, and custodial care, which entails assistance with daily tasks after one is admitted to the hospital for the long term. It also leaves out the cost of the first three pints of blood and food, and recreational facilities in one’s hospital room. Some of these services may be covered under Part B.

Is Medicare free?
No, Medicare is not entirely free in the country. Older adults who have reached the age of 65, have worked at least 40 quarters, qualify for retirement benefits from Social Security, and have paid Medicare taxes are eligible for a premium-free Medicare Part A. Those under 65 affected by a disability or illnesses like end-stage renal disease or kidney failure can also avail of free insurance. For the rest, Medicare cost entails monthly premiums and the patient’s share—coinsurance and deductibles. One can club the original Medicare with Medigap—supplementary insurance that can help fund some of the out-of-pocket costs.

Does Medicare offer nationwide coverage?
Yes, Medicare offers nationwide coverage. One can avail of its benefits in all hospitals that accept original Medicare. One should consult their doctor regarding the coverage before starting a treatment.

Medicare Advantage plans offer the coverage of Original Medicare and some added benefits. For these plans, also known as Part C, eligible users can get coverage for dental, hearing, and vision expenses. One of the most popular Medicare Advantage insurance providers is UnitedHealthcare, offering plans in all states. This company has an incredible coverage network of 1.3 million healthcare professionals and physicians and 6,500 hospitals across the country.