Key Takeaways:

• Medicare Advantage plans often include supplemental benefits that go beyond basic medical coverage, but some features are easy to overlook.

• Understanding these benefits can help you make the most of your plan and improve your overall quality of life.

Discover Hidden Benefits in Medicare Advantage Plans

If you’ve enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you already know it combines Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) into one convenient package. What you may not know, however, is that many plans include extra benefits known as supplemental benefits. These perks can make a big difference in your healthcare experience, but they’re often misunderstood or underutilized. By fully exploring these offerings, you can unlock additional value and support your health in ways that go far beyond the basics.

Supplemental benefits cover a wide range of services, from dental and vision care to fitness programs and telehealth services. Some even offer in-home support or allowances for over-the-counter items. Let’s dive into these six key features in more depth and see how they can work for you.

1. Comprehensive Dental Care

Medicare Advantage plans often provide dental benefits that go far beyond routine cleanings and exams. While Original Medicare doesn’t cover most dental services, many Advantage plans include coverage for:

• Crowns and fillings

• Periodontal treatments

• Dentures and implants

These benefits can save you significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially for more extensive dental work. However, there’s usually an annual limit on coverage, so it’s essential to understand the specifics of your plan.

Good dental health can have a ripple effect on your overall health. Gum disease, for instance, has been linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. By taking advantage of your plan’s dental coverage, you’re not just caring for your teeth—you’re supporting your long-term health.

Tip: Don’t wait until you need major dental work to review your coverage. Schedule regular checkups to maintain your oral health and fully use the benefits you’re already paying for.

2. Vision and Hearing Perks

Vision and hearing benefits are another major advantage of Medicare Advantage plans. Unlike Original Medicare, which offers limited support for vision and hearing, these plans often include:

• Coverage for annual eye exams

• Allowances for glasses or contact lenses

• Hearing tests and hearing aids

These benefits are not just about convenience; they’re about maintaining your quality of life. Poor vision and hearing can lead to falls, social isolation, and other health issues. Take advantage of these perks to stay connected and healthy.

Many plans now recognize the importance of early detection. Frequent eye exams can help catch issues like cataracts or glaucoma early, while regular hearing tests can identify hearing loss that might otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive approach can prevent more serious complications down the line.

Tip: Check your plan’s specifics for details on allowances, copayments, or coverage limits. Schedule routine vision and hearing checkups to catch problems early.

3. Fitness and Wellness Programs

Staying active is one of the best ways to maintain your physical and mental health, and many Medicare Advantage plans make it easier with fitness and wellness programs. These may include:

• Free or discounted gym memberships

• Access to fitness classes

• Virtual workout programs

Beyond physical fitness, wellness programs can also include benefits like nutrition counseling, weight management support, and smoking cessation programs. These resources are designed to keep you healthy and help you manage chronic conditions.

Participation in these programs can also reduce the risk of chronic diseases like arthritis, hypertension, and obesity. Some plans even offer specialized programs for those recovering from surgeries or managing chronic conditions like diabetes. This holistic approach to health can be a game-changer.

Tip: Explore whether your plan includes access to local gyms or national fitness networks. Virtual options can be especially helpful if you prefer to exercise at home.

4. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Allowances

One of the lesser-known perks of Medicare Advantage plans is the over-the-counter (OTC) allowance. Many plans offer a quarterly or monthly allowance that you can use to purchase everyday health products, such as:

• Pain relievers

• Bandages

• Vitamins and supplements

These allowances are a simple way to save money on items you likely buy regularly. However, the specifics of what’s covered and how much you can spend vary from plan to plan.

Maximizing your OTC allowance requires a little planning. Many plans provide catalogs of eligible products, so you know exactly what’s covered. By making regular use of this benefit, you can offset some of your routine healthcare expenses.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with the OTC catalog provided by your plan. Make a list of eligible products to ensure you’re maximizing your allowance.

5. In-Home Support Services

As you age, maintaining your independence at home can become more challenging. Medicare Advantage plans often include in-home support services to help, such as:

• Meal delivery

• Transportation to medical appointments

• Help with light housekeeping or daily tasks

These benefits are especially valuable if you’re recovering from surgery or managing a chronic condition. They can reduce stress and provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.

The availability of in-home services can be a lifeline for those who might otherwise struggle to get to appointments or prepare meals. Even light housekeeping services can make a significant difference in quality of life.

Tip: Contact your plan provider to see what types of in-home services are available and how to access them. These benefits are typically limited in scope, so plan ahead for when you might need them.

6. Expanded Telehealth Options

Telehealth has become an essential healthcare tool, and Medicare Advantage plans are leading the way in expanding these services. Telehealth allows you to:

• Consult with doctors or specialists remotely

• Receive mental health counseling

• Manage chronic conditions from home

These services are convenient and can save you time and money on transportation. They’re particularly useful for those who live in rural areas or have mobility issues.

Telehealth is especially valuable for mental health services, where regular therapy sessions can be crucial. Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension through telehealth can also reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

Tip: Make sure you have the necessary technology, like a smartphone, tablet, or computer, to access telehealth services. Check your plan for any copayments or limitations on these visits.

Maximize Your Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits

Understanding and using the supplemental benefits in your Medicare Advantage plan can significantly enhance your healthcare experience. However, these benefits aren’t always easy to navigate. Here are some general tips to help you make the most of them:

• Review Your Plan Documents: Your plan’s Evidence of Coverage (EOC) will outline all the benefits available to you, along with any limitations or conditions.

• Stay Informed During Open Enrollment: Each year, plans can change their benefits. Take time during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) to review your options and ensure your plan still meets your needs.

• Use Member Resources: Many plans offer online portals or customer service hotlines to answer questions and provide guidance.

Your Health, Your Plan: Stay Proactive

Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits are there to support your overall health and well-being, but it’s up to you to take advantage of them. Whether it’s scheduling a dental cleaning, signing up for a fitness program, or using your OTC allowance, these small actions can add up to big benefits. Don’t let these perks go to waste—your health and happiness are worth the effort.