9 Unexpected Benefits of Medicare & 5 New Enhancements for 2024
Hey there, health enthusiasts! Welcome to our blog, your go-to resource for demystifying Medicare’s maze. Today, we’re delving into some eye-openers: nine unexpected Medicare coverages and five new tweaks set to roll out in 2024 and beyond. Ready to get enlightened? Let’s dive in!
New Updates for 2024:
- Enhanced Mental Health Support: Medicare is stepping up its game in mental health coverage, including intensive outpatient services and access to marriage and family therapists.
- Prescription Savings: Get ready for a game-changer in 2024 with a new out-of-pocket maximum for prescriptions. Once you shell out $8,000, your meds are on the house (assuming they’re covered, of course).
- Affordable Insulin: In a significant shift, all Part D plans will cap a 30-day insulin supply at $35, no deductible involved.
- Vaccine Coverage Expansion: Besides the usual suspects (flu, hepatitis, and COVID-19 vaccines), 2025 will bring Medicare coverage for antiviral meds to combat COVID-19.
- Telehealth Evolution: The telehealth wave isn’t receding anytime soon. Expect more enhancements and accessibility in Medicare’s telehealth offerings in 2025.
Now, for the Surprises:
- Hearing Exams: While hearing aids aren’t covered, Medicare will pay for annual diagnostic exams to check for hearing issues.
- Vision Screenings: Medicare covers annual glaucoma screenings, but don’t expect them to fund your next pair of trendy glasses or contact lenses.
- Foot Care: Diabetic? Struggling with foot issues? Medicare’s got you covered for necessary foot care and treatments.
- Chiropractic and Acupuncture: Medicare will cover spinal manipulations and, surprisingly, acupuncture for lower back pain.
- Bariatric Surgery: Thinking about weight-loss surgery? Medicare has provisions for procedures like gastric bypass under certain conditions.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: Kick the habit with Medicare’s support, offering up to eight face-to-face visits over 12 months.
- Eyeglasses Post-Cataract Surgery: After cataract surgery, Medicare will cover one pair of standard eyeglasses, ensuring you see the world more clearly.
- STI Screenings and Counseling: Age doesn’t exempt one from STIs; Medicare covers screenings and counseling for various sexually transmitted infections.
- Coverage Beyond the States: Traveling to Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands? Your Medicare coverage follows you, ensuring peace of mind during your adventures.
Who knew Medicare had so many layers? Whether it’s the new enhancements for 2024 or the surprising coverages, staying informed is your best bet for maximizing your benefits. Remember, if you have questions or need clarity, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share our content. Your health journey is important to us, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
