What 6 things will Medicare not cover?


Editorial team Published on

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover several major healthcare costs, including routine dental care, long-term custodial care, and hearing aids.

🦷 1. Most Dental Care

  • No routine cleanings, fillings, or extractions.
  • No dentures or major dental devices.
  • Exception: Rare medical procedures involving jaw reconstruction or organ transplants.

👁️ 2. Routine Vision Care

  • No routine eye exams for prescription glasses.
  • No eyeglasses or contact lenses.
  • Exception: Diagnostic exams for conditions like glaucoma or diabetes, and post-cataract surgery lenses.

👂 3. Hearing Aids and Exams

  • No hearing aids or fitting exams.
  • No routine hearing evaluations.
  • Beneficiaries pay 100% out of pocket unless enrolled in a supplemental or Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan.

🏡 4. Long-Term (Custodial) Care

  • No assistance with daily living (bathing, dressing, eating).
  • No extended nursing home or assisted living residency.
  • Exception: Short-term skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay.

🌍 5. Medical Care Outside the U.S.

  • No routine or emergency coverage outside the country.
  • Exception: Extremely rare border-town emergencies or specific Medigap/Advantage plan riders.

💊 6. Outpatient Prescription Drugs