What is Not Covered by Medicare

What’s NOT Covered by Medicare Parts A & B

 Medicare Parts A & B are comprehensive major medical programs which cover most medically-necessary services and some preventative services. But, it doesn’t cover every possible medical or hospital service available in the United States.

 Also, it is important to remember that even if Medicare covers a service or item, you generally have to pay deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Medicare typically neither offers nor guarantees a service is paid at 100%.

 Some of the items and services that Medicare doesn’t cover include:

• Most dental care. 
Routine exams, cleanings, x-rays, root canals, dentures, and extractions are neither covered by Medicare Part A or Part B.
• Eye examinations related to prescribing glasses. 
Be aware, however, that Medicare does provide coverage for diagnosis and treatment for diseases and conditions of the eye.
• Cosmetic surgery. 

• 
Acupuncture.
• Hearing aids and exams for fitting them. 

• Long-term care. Medicare does have limited coverage for skilled nursing care coverage, but this is not long-term care. For more information, please see our section regarding Medicare & Long-term care.

Prescription drugs are typically covered by Medicare Part D. You do not use your Red, White, and Blue Medicare card for your prescription drugs that fall under Part D. Part D is a separate program with its own benefits and its own identification number.