Routine check-ups are not covered, but some procedures might be covered by Medigap

At Fair Square Medicare, we take pride in recommending the best plan for each of our clients. Often we will recommend a Medicare Supplement Plan G because it offers the most comprehensive medical coverage to pair with the largest network. But that doesn't mean that it has everything you might find on other plans. Some Medicare Advantage plans have routine dental and vision visits are part of their benefits. Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap plans, generally do not cover dental and vision. But there are some instances where you might get coverage. Let's talk it through.

What is a Medicare Supplement Plan?

A Medicare Supplement Plan is a type of health insurance plan that helps cover many of the costs and gaps in Original Medicare. It is sometimes referred to as Medigap coverage because it helps fill in the “gaps” between what you get from Medicare Part A and Part B.

Why Medicare Supplement?

Medicare Supplement plans are popular because they provide a consistent level of coverage regardless of where you receive care. There are no provider networks and no referrals required, so the access to care is great. Plus, these plans typically have an affordable monthly premium that can fit into most budgets. If you have Plan G, your out-of-pocket expenses are limited to the Part B deductible. With Medicare Advantage plans, you have a maximum out-of-pocket amount that could be thousands of dollars. You are unlikely to reach that each month, but it's a lot easier to budget for expenses with Plan G. Without the coverage of Medicare Supplement Plan G, your costs could pile up.

What are the benefits of Medicare Supplement?

Having a Medicare Supplement plan can help you save money in the long run. It covers many of the same items that Original Medicare does, but it offers additional coverage that could save you from high out-of-pocket costs. For instance, Plan G pays for all of your Part B coinsurance and copayments after reaching the Part B deductible, which can help you avoid thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses each year.

Medigap coverage of dental and vision

Unfortunately, most Medicare Supplement plans do not cover dental and vision care. But some exceptions may provide limited coverage on those services. For example, if your doctor says you need dental implants or surgery to treat macular degeneration, then they will be covered by Medicare. But the more routine visits to the optometrist or dentist will not be covered unless you have a Medicare Advantage plan with certain benefits.

Medicare Advantage coverage of dental and vision

Medicare Advantage plans are hotly debated recently. By law, they are required to have the same coverage as Medicare Part A and B. But they also might offer unique benefits such as dental and vision which make them an enticing option for Medicare beneficiaries that need those covered. As we've talked about before, Medicare Advantage plans aren't inherently bad, they are just misunderstood. What's important is that you are not sacrificing your core health coverage or your freedom of network for flashy benefits that won't actually save you money. A great way to see if Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement makes more sense for you is to have a consultation with Fair Square Medicare.

Conclusion

If you want to find out if you're eligible for additional vision and dental coverage, we suggest speaking with a licensed insurance expert at Fair Square Medicare. Our team is deeply familiar with the Medicare system, and we can help you compare Medicare plans that may provide coverage for those services. We can also point you in the right direction of a plan that best suits your needs and saves you money. Call us today to speak with an expert.