Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and above, as well as those below 65 that receive Social Security Disability Insurance, or people with End-Stage Renal Disease. There are four parts of Medicare. Part A and B, which are Original Medicare, provide inpatient and outpatient medical coverage, respectively. Part C offers a Medicare Advantage Plan, and part D covers prescription drugs. A person is eligible for healthcare enrollment three months before they turn 65 or if they have a disability. Here are seven unexpected health services Medicare doesn’t cover:

1. Routine eye exams
Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams, contact lenses, or eyeglasses. However, if you have a high-risk medical condition like diabetes, Medicare can cover an annual eye exam. At an additional-cost, you can enroll for Medicare Advantage Plan, which will cover eye exams and diagnostics.

2. Hearing aids
The cost of routine hearing exams and hearing-aids is not covered by Medicare parts A and B. However, only part C of Medicare offers hearing aids benefits and other ear-related medical conditions. Since hearing aids are expensive, Medicare Advantage plan enrollment is highly recommended.

3. Routine dental exams
Unfortunately, original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care or most procedures related to oral care, like fillings, extractions, and cleaning. Most Medicare Advantage plans have dental care coverage, including preventive and diagnostic services.

4. Long term care
Long term care is a combination of medical and non-medical services for people with chronic illnesses and persons with disability who cannot take care of themselves. Medicare does not cover most non-medical services. However, if a person receives care from a hospice, Medicare will cover custodial care costs.

5. Prescription drugs
Original Medicare part A and B doesn’t cover most prescription-drugs. Part A will only cover inpatient medication while part B will cover some vaccines and injections. However, enrolling for Medicare part D will ensure extensive outpatient prescription drug coverage.

6. Dentures
Like any other dental care, Medicare does not cover dentures. Installing-dentures involves removing your teeth which may be uncomfortable living without. Parts A & B will charge extra for dental implants. Having dental care that comprehensively covers your dentures and dental care is the best approach to Medicare so upgrading to the Medicare Advantage plan, also known as part C which automatically covers all dental health expenses is advised.

7. Overseas health care
In most circumstances, Medicare will not cover overseas health care costs or prescription drugs. However, certain situations may warrant exceptions. An example of this can be if a person requires urgent medical care and the nearest hospital is across the border. In this case, you may be eligible for Original Medicare. Moreover, you can purchase a Medicare Advantage plan and include travel insurance coverage.

Emergencies happen all the time and are unpredictable sometimes. It is important to assess your health needs appropriately before making your final decision on which version of Medicare to go for. This said, it is important to look after yourself and avoid activities that pose a significant risk to your health.