Have you heard of Medicare Advantage plans, but still aren’t sure if joining one of them is the right choice for you? Maybe these two words can help: supplemental benefits.
What are supplemental benefits?
Medicare Advantage plans will offer you the same coverage that Original Medicare (opens in new tab) does, but will often offer supplemental benefits that are not traditionally covered by Original Medicare. These supplemental services can help you live a healthier lifestyle and improve your quality of life. Some of these supplemental services can include dental care like cleanings and dentures, vision care like eyeglasses, and other important benefits not covered by Original Medicare. The best part? These benefits can help you every day, not just when you get sick.
Medicare Advantage plans are all approved by Medicare (opens in new tab), but offered by private companies. You may have also heard of these plans referred to as “Medicare Part C”. Private companies can offer you the same coverage as Original Medicare, and some of them are also able to offer supplemental services above and beyond Original Medicare benefits.
Are you thinking these supplemental benefits might cost you extra dollars? That may not be the case! Some Medicare Advantage plans offer them at no additional cost to you. Be sure to check when shopping for plans in your area.
Common types of supplemental benefits
There a lot of different types of supplemental benefits out there, so let’s review some of the most common types provided: