What Does Medicare Advantage Cover? Benefits Explained

Medicare Advantage Plans cover all of the medically necessary benefits covered under Original Medicare’s Parts A and B, as well as prescription drug coverage, which most plans offer. In addition, plans can provide additional benefits, such as dental, vision, hearing, fitness, transportation or other health-related benefits.

 Medicare.gov — Your coverage options

What does Medicare Advantage cover?

Medicare Advantage, also called Medicare Part C, is another way to get Medicare benefits through a private insurance company, approved by Medicare. These plans must cover medically necessary services covered under Original Medicare. Medicare Part A is associated with hospital insurance, while Part B provides medical services and supplies. By joining the Medicare Advantage program, your plan takes responsibility for your Medicare-covered services, rather than Medicare pays healthcare providers directly. Prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D) is also generally included in a Medicare Advantage plan, and you do not need to purchase a standalone Medicare prescription drug plan.
Senior adult discussing Medicare Advantage health coverage with a healthcare professional.
Senior adult discussing Medicare Advantage health coverage with a healthcare professional.

Does Medicare Advantage include dental, vision and hearing?

Comparing Medicare Advantage plans may be driven by the availability of services which Original Medicare does not cover. This includes dental, vision and hearing benefits depending on the individual plan.
  • Certain dental services including examinations, cleanings or other dental care.
  • Certain vision services and allowances toward eyewear.
  • Certain hearing services and hearing exams.
  • Fitness programs and/or gym membership.
  • Transportation for certain medical appointments.
  • Over-the-counter health-related benefits.
Medicare.gov — Parts of Medicare

These extras are not standard in all Medicare Advantage plans. Benefits might have limitations, eligibility criteria, provider restrictions or annual allowance. Be sure to check plan’s Evidence of Coverage and benefit information before assuming the service will be covered.

 Medicare.gov — Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

Are prescription drugs covered by Medicare Advantage?

Most Medicare Advantage plans include
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