In the United States, Medicare generally becomes the primary coverage at age 65 or for permanently disabled individuals under the age of 65. An estimated 60 million individuals are enrolled in this federal health insurance program that pays for a variety of covered health care services. However, many people enrolled in the program are surprised that there are several health services and procedures that Medicare does not cover, such as:

1. Prescription drugs

If you have a health insurance premium, you may wonder if your Medicare plan covers prescription medications. The answer is that Medicare does not cover most prescription drugs. However, there are some exceptions for medicines that are considered medically necessary. Medicare will only cover medications used to treat or prevent a health condition. For example, Medicare may cover medications used to treat diabetes or high blood pressure.

2. Health coverage outside the U.S. 

If you are enrolled in Medicare, you will not be covered for medical expenses incurred outside the country. If you need medical care while traveling, you must purchase a separate travel insurance policy to cover your costs. Different travel insurance plans are available, so shopping around and finding one that best suits your needs is essential. Read the policy carefully before purchasing, as some plans may only cover certain medical expenses. With the right policy in place, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about how you will pay for unexpected health care costs.

3. Long-term assisted living and home care

Long-term care is a type of care that is typically not covered by Medicare. This includes nursing home care, assisted living, and home health care. While this type of care can be expensive, it can also be invaluable for those who need it. Long-term care can help ensure that a person receives the necessary level of care and support, and it can also help prevent serious health problems. For these reasons, it is essential to consider all of the options before deciding on long-term care.

4. Routine eye check ups

Eye health is an important part of overall health, and regular eye exams are essential to preventive care. However, routine eye exams are not covered under Medicare. While this health insurance plan does cover diagnostic eye exams for those with vision problems, it does not cover the cost of routine check-ups.

5. Hearing aids

Although hearing aids can be highly beneficial to seniors with hearing loss, Medicare does not cover the cost of these devices. Several private insurance plans offer coverage for them, but many seniors cannot afford them. In some cases, the cost of hearing aids can be a financial burden that prevents seniors from being able to get the help they need. For this reason, seniors need to research their options and find a plan that meets their needs and budget.

6. Dentures and dental exams 

Medicare insurance does not cover dental exams and dentures. However, there are some dental procedures that Medicare will cover if they are considered medically necessary. For example, Medicare will pay for a teeth cleaning if it is prescribed by a doctor to treat a medical condition. Medicare will also cover the cost of x-rays and fillings. Additionally, if you need to have your teeth extracted, Medicare will cover the cost of the procedure.

In conclusion, Medicare insurance does not cover a range of healthcare services and products, including the Dexcom G7. If you’re concerned whether or not Medicare covers Dexcom G7, it does – but only for people living with diabetes who are on any type of insulin. Additionally, if you are not on insulin, but experience low blood glucose events, you will qualify for coverage on the Dexcom G7. It is important to know what Medicare does and does not cover so that you can plan and budget for your healthcare needs in retirement. Some ways to supplement your Medicare coverage include the UTC Medicare plan and private health insurance, Medigap plans, and long-term care insurance. Talk to your financial advisor to learn more about how to supplement your Medicare coverage.