Medicare is a government-run health insurance program that provides coverage for Americans who are 65 and older or have a disability. While Medicare covers a lot of medical expenses, there are certain things that it doesn’t cover—like cosmetic procedures, outpatient prescription drugs, and many new treatments and alternative treatments for chronic conditions, like cancer. Many policyholders choose additional coverage from well-known providers like AARP, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Kaiser Permanente, and Mutual of Omaha to fill the gaps left by standard health plans. Secondary or dual insurance — where one plan acts as primary and another provides backup coverage — can help reduce out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, co-pays, and services not included in the main plan. These supplemental options often extend to benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and long-term care, offering added financial protection and peace of mind when unexpected expenses arise.
Even with these added protections, it’s essential to understand exactly what Medicare itself doesn’t include to avoid costly surprises later.
Here are things that Medicare doesn’t cover:

1. Routine dental care

First up, let’s talk about those pearly whites. Medicare doesn’t typically cover routine dental care, which includes cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, or dentures. While some Medicare Advantage plans offered by private insurers like Humana or Kaiser Permanente might provide dental benefits, Original Medicare leaves this up to you. It’s important to budget for these out-of-pocket costs or consider supplemental dental insurance to keep your smile bright.

2. Vision care

Medicare also skips over most vision-related expenses. This means routine eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses are generally not covered. If you need cataract surgery, Medicare will cover some costs, but the day-to-day vision care is your responsibility. Many Medicare Advantage plans, including those from Aetna Medicare and UnitedHealthcare, offer additional vision coverage, so exploring these options might be worth your while.

3. Hearing aids and exams

Hearing loss is a common issue as people age, but unfortunately, Medicare does not cover hearing aids or the exams needed to fit them. These devices can be costly, often running into thousands of dollars. Some Medicare Advantage plans, such as those from Blue Cross Blue Shield or Cigna, may offer hearing benefits. If hearing aids are in your future, it’s a good idea to research these plans or save up for the expense.

4. Long-term care

When it comes to long-term care, Medicare’s coverage is quite limited. It doesn’t cover custodial care in nursing homes or assisted living facilities if that’s the only type of care you need. Medicare does cover short-term stays in skilled nursing facilities for rehabilitation after a hospital stay, but long-term care is generally not included. Planning for potential long-term care needs is crucial, and considering long-term care insurance might be a wise move.

5. Cosmetic surgery

While everyone wants to look their best, Medicare won’t foot the bill for cosmetic surgery unless it’s medically necessary. This means procedures like facelifts or tummy tucks are not covered unless they’re required to improve a body function or are needed due to an injury. If you’re considering cosmetic procedures, be prepared to cover the costs yourself.

6. Alternative therapies

Alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, chiropractic services, or massage therapy, are not typically covered by Medicare. While these therapies can be beneficial for some, Medicare usually only covers them if they are part of a medically necessary treatment plan prescribed by a doctor. If alternative medicine is part of your wellness routine, you’ll need to budget for these services out-of-pocket.

7. Prescription drugs

While Medicare Part D offers prescription drug coverage, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover most prescription medications. To get drug coverage, you’ll need to enroll in a separate Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage. Comparing plans from providers like Humana, Kaiser Permanente, or UnitedHealthcare can help you find the best fit for your medication needs.

Understanding what Medicare does not cover is just as important as knowing what it does. Being aware of these gaps can help you plan and budget effectively, ensuring that you’re not caught off guard by unexpected expenses. Consider exploring supplemental insurance options or Medicare Advantage plans to fill in these gaps and provide a more comprehensive healthcare package. With a little foresight and planning, you can navigate Medicare with confidence and peace of mind.