Here's a breakdown of what the four parts of Medicare cover (and don't cover), plus some other things that Medicare helps pay for. Original Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids or the hearing tests needed to prescribe and adapt hearing aids. You will pay 100% of the costs associated with the hearing aids. Original Medicare doesn't cover routine physical exams. You'll pay 100% of all uncovered cosmetic surgeries.
You will pay 100% for massage services. Original Medicare doesn't cover acupuncture services, unless they're for chronic low back pain. You'll pay 100% of the costs if you don't meet the coverage requirements. Medicare generally doesn't cover routine eye exams or eyeglasses (exceptions include an annual eye exam if you have diabetes or eyeglasses after undergoing certain types of cataract surgery). However, some Medicare Advantage plans provide eye coverage, or you may be able to purchase a separate supplemental policy that provides eye care.
In addition, some Medicare Advantage plans cover emergency care abroad. Or you can buy a travel insurance policy that covers some medical expenses while you're outside the U.S. UU. It can even cover an emergency medical evacuation, whose transportation aboard a medical plane or helicopter can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Medicare Part B (health insurance) helps cover the cost of medically necessary durable medical equipment if your doctor prescribes it for use in your home.
Medicare Part B (also known as health insurance) provides coverage for preventive and medically necessary care services. For example, Medicare doesn't cover breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons, but reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy does. Original Medicare generally doesn't cover the cost of a nursing home, assisted living facility, or long-term care facility. Medicare provides coverage for some skilled nursing services, but not for custodial care, such as help with bathing, dressing, and other activities of daily living. If you save money on an HSA before you sign up for Medicare, you can make tax-free distributions at any age to reimburse for exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, prescription sunglasses, and other out-of-pocket expenses related to eye care.
Medicare Part A (also known as hospital insurance) can generally cover inpatient hospital care, nursing facility care, nursing home care, palliative care, and home health care. In addition, the Department of Health and Human Services finalized rules in April 2024 to review how Medicare Advantage customers obtain prior approval for care. These coverage gaps can be filled with additional parts of Medicare, such as Medicaid, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, or a PACE (Comprehensive Care Program for the Elderly) plan. Medicare covers a wellness visit once every 12 months (a full 11 months must have passed since your last visit), and you are eligible for this benefit after receiving Part B for at least 12 months.
Medicare covers most of the healthcare needs of older Americans, from hospital care and doctor visits to laboratory tests and surgery.
