Learn About The 10 Hidden Benefits of Medicare That Most People Do not Know

1. Over-The-Counter (OTC) Benefit in Medicare Advantage Plans

As part of your healthcare regimen, you probably rely on a spectrum of over-the-counter (OTC) products. Medicare Advantage plans with OTC benefits are a lesser-known benefit that could considerably lower your out-of-pocket healthcare costs. While traditional Medicare covers predominantly prescription drugs, certain Medicare Advantage plans include an enrichment for acquiring OTC pharmacy products, at virtually no extra cost. You can access necessary items such as vitamins, pain relievers, cough suppressants, dental-care items and more, thereby promoting preventative health and wellbeing. This makes them a valuable resource for those seeking to maximize the value of their healthcare investments. Keep in mind that OTC benefit amounts may vary depending on the plan and not all OTC products may be covered.

2. Exciting Perks of Anthem Medicare Advantage Plans

Anthem's Medicare Advantage plans are a shining example of the bonuses some Medicare plans offer beyond standard coverage. The company offers comprehensive healthcare services that go beyond typical hospital and medical coverages. Some of the hidden gems in their coverage include out-of-state coverage, which allows you access to necessary healthcare even when you're away from your home state. Gym memberships or fitness programs are part of the wellness benefits, providing support for proactive health management. They also offer substantial programs that focus on chronic diseases, personalised according to each beneficiary's needs. These plans even provide for preventive health screenings, encouraging early disease detection.

3. Family Caregiver Support through Medicaid

Caregiving is a role many will take on at some point, but what many don't realize is that Medicaid offers help for family caregivers. Interestingly, states have the flexibility to design their own Medicaid programs within the federal guidelines, which means that policies and benefits like caregiver support can vary significantly from one state to another. These programs may provide direct or indirect financial aid, respite care, training, or counseling services to caregivers of Medicaid recipients. Depending on the state, some programs might even consider caregivers as paid providers for Medicaid recipients. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a valuable benefit.

4. Dental Health Coverage with Humana

Traditional Medicare doesn't cover dental benefits, and this gap in coverage can lead to seniors neglecting their oral health, as they're unable to bear the out-of-pocket costs. But Humana Medicare Advantage plans can fill this gap by offering dental benefits. These plans cover routine check-ups, teeth cleaning, extractions, fillings, and in some cases, even more extensive procedures like root canals or dentures. They also cover orthodontic issues; a benefit incredibly important for seniors given the strong link between oral health and overall health.

5. Medicare Coverage for Short-term Care

Another commonly overlooked benefit of Medicare is its coverage for short-term skilled care and rehabilitation services, post-hospitalization. This included outpatient physical therapy, skilled nursing facility stays, home healthcare services and other similar short-term recovery assistance. Requiring only a qualifying hospital stay, this benefit can be a crucial safety net for those recovering from serious illnesses or surgeries. It's worth noting that coverage parameters can be complex, and beneficiaries should fully understand their plan's particulars.

6. Telemedicine Consultation Coverage

More and more, Medicare is adapting to the digital age. Telemedicine is becoming increasingly recognized as an important aspect of modern healthcare, and Medicare coverage is stepping up to match. Medicare Part B now covers certain telemedicine services, like office visits, psychotherapy, consultations, and certain other medical services that are provided by an eligible provider who isn't at your location using an interactive 2-way telecommunications system. Especially for those residing in rural or remote locations, this aspect of Medicare is a boon.

7. Coverage for Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

An added benefit not commonly publicized is Medicare's coverage for Durable Medical Equipment. This includes wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds for home use and other medically necessary equipment prescribed by a doctor for use in the home. This section about medicare advantage plans with otc benefit, anthem medicare advantage plans, family caregiver medicaid provides valuable information for readers interested in the Health category. For more detailed information on medicare advantage plans with otc benefit, anthem medicare advantage plans, family caregiver medicaid and related subjects, consider exploring additional resources and premium services available in the market.

8. Medicare Offers Preventive Measures

Preventive services are essential for catching potentially serious health issues early, and protecting against health problems before they occur. Medicare covers a long list of preventive services, including screenings for cardiovascular diseases, various types of cancer, diabetes, and more. Vaccinations like flu shots, hepatitis B shots, and pneumococcal shots are also covered.

9. Mental Health Coverage

Medicare also offers mental health benefits, funding counseling sessions, psychotherapy, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. Providing more comprehensive mental health coverage validates the critical place mental health holds in overall health care.

10. Ambulance Services and Emergency Care Coverage

Medicare Part B covers ambulance services to or from a hospital, critical access hospital, or a skilled nursing facility when other transportation could endanger your health. This kind of relief in cases of emergencies and subsequent transportation – a source of significant stress emotionally and financially is a tremendous boone to have.