Dental, Vision & Hearing Plans
Here at Oakleaf Advisors, we help you plan for all your health needs.
Dental, Vision, and Hearing Plans for Medicare Beneficiaries
Medicare plans provide extensive coverage for many health-related needs. However, dental, vision, and hearing (DVH) coverage can be more limited. For example, Original Medicare does not offer routine dental care. This gap means that services such as routine cleanings, exams, x-rays, fillings, extractions, and dentures are not covered. Medicare Part A (hospital) may cover specific dental services if they are required for a covered procedure.
Similarly, routine vision care, including eye exams and the cost of glasses or contact lenses, is not covered under Original Medicare. Medicare Part B (medical) does cover certain vision services related to specific medical conditions, like:
When to Enroll in DVH Plans
You can review, change, add, or remove DVH coverage during any Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs annually from October 15th to December 7th.
Options for Additional Dental, Vision & Hearing Coverage
Dental and vision coverage is essential for seniors. There are generally three options for Medicare beneficiaries who want ancillary coverage:
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): Many Medicare Advantage plans include DVH benefits. These plans can include coverage for routine dental care (i.e., cleanings and exams) and vision care (i.e., eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses).
Standalone Plans: Standalone plans can be purchased separately from other Medicare coverage and include a wide range of coverage options.
Discount Plans: These are not insurance plans, but they can offer reduced rates on these services through a network of participating providers. Discount plans can provide savings on routine care and treatments, although they do not offer insurance coverage or financial protection.
What to Consider When Choosing a DVH Plan
Similar to other coverage, weighing your options and comparing plans to find your best fit is crucial. Here are some things to consider:
Evaluate Your Needs: Assess your care needs based on your current health conditions, existing problems, and future care requirements.
Review Benefits: Whether you’re considering a Medicare Advantage plan with additional benefits or standalone insurance plans, compare them thoroughly. Ensure that the plan you choose includes the services you need and that you have access to your preferred providers.
Review Costs: Understand the costs associated with each option, including premiums, copayments, and out-of-pocket expenses. Consider how these costs fit into your overall healthcare budget.