Medicare is a great way to cover the health needs of senior citizens in the country. There are many parts to this insurance plan, and while it is an extensively detailed policy with numerous services, there are some things that Medicare does not cover. Anyone planning to enroll in the program should know of the exclusions so there are no surprises later. Thus, here are 9 aspects of healthcare not covered by Medicare.

Hearing aids
Any ear-related health conditions are covered under Medicare; however, the Medicare or Medigap plans do not cover hearing tests or hearing aid purchases under their plan. If one has a Medicare Advantage plan, cone can check the policy details to see if it has covered hearing-related health needs. The original Medicare does not cover this need, so it is usually advised to buy another insurance that will help in covering hearing devices. Some programs by the government assist those in need with buying hearing aids for health purposes; one can check those out for further assistance.

Routine eye checkups or aids
Medicare covers intensive care options like cataract surgery but does not cover routine eye examinations. It also excludes coverage for purchasing contact lenses or glasses. Even the Medigap plans do not cover this expense, but some of the specific Medicare Advantage Plans do cover routine glasses and vision care for their members. Experts suggest that buying a vision insurance policy separately may be helpful in taking care of the extra cost spent on vision care.

Cosmetic surgery
Coverage of plastic surgery in the event of an accidental injury is usually covered under Medicare. It is also covered in an instance where plastic surgery is needed due to other treatments like a mastectomy, where breast reconstruction may be needed. However, there is no Medicare plan coverage for procedures like face lifts and tummy tucks. These are known as elective cosmetic surgeries. Anyone who may need these services will have to pay for it out of pocket.

Dental services
Going to a dentist is an expensive affair, and the Original Medicare and Medigap policies do not cover dental care, which includes routine checkups or even procedures like dentures and root canal. However, with age, it is recommended to visit the dentist periodically to ensure everything is fine. Experts advise one to consider buying a dental insurance plan separately apart from the ongoing Medicare plan or even opt for a dental discount plan.

Massage therapy
With age, individuals tend to have many health issues related to chronic pain. This includes not just muscle pain but joint pain as well. There are pain management programs that can help in relieving the symptoms of pain in the body, but original Medicare, unfortunately, does not cover massage therapy in its plan. These massage therapies are known to help reduce chronic pain in the short term. Most of the Medicare plans cover chiropractic care in some limited circumstances. They also cover physical and occupational therapy, but only when a doctor prescribes the same. Since there are some blurred lines for massage therapy, it is recommended to speak to an insurance representative to help understand one’s Medicare plan. Another way to manage pain is to speak to the doctor and ask them if there are any therapies that can be recommended that are already covered in the plan.

Concierge care
Some physicians and facilities cater to their patient’s needs only after they pay a membership fee. They advertise this membership as a premium service that ensures the patient is a priority, and their needs are taken care of without any delay, and so on. Depending on the doctor and the facility, these fees can vary and run up to thousands of dollars. Medicare does not cover such services. It is always important to speak to someone who knows the details of the Medicare plan and can work around the services covered in that. Some state laws also protect patients from paying exorbitant amounts for basic health needs, so always read the literature before committing to it.

Nursing home care
Medicare typically covers the costs for individuals who have gone through a major surgery like a hip replacement surgery or other treatments that need inpatient physical therapy for days or weeks. However, if someone has to move into an assisted living facility or a nursing home, then Medicare is not responsible for covering their cost of living. These assisted living homes and facilities can cost a lot of money, starting from $50,000 a year, and can fluctuate highly depending on the state, stay, and facilities. Medicaid might have some options for those who need assistance with nursing home care and for those with limited income and savings options. One should carefully check all policies before choosing one that meets most of one’s needs.

Podiatry
Treatment options for foot examinations or treatment related to nerve damage due to diabetes or other ailments are covered under Medicare. Other foot injuries or illness like heel spurs, bunion deformities, or even hammertoe is covered under the plan. However, routine healthcare tests or treatments are not covered, like callus removal. These costs need to be paid for out of pocket.

Overseas care
Any health costs incurred outside of the country are not covered by Medicare. Certain Medigap policies do have some overseas health coverage that one can get, but this is typically advised only if one travels a lot outside of the country. One must speak to a representative to get more details and see if it fits one’s needs.