As one ages, healthcare becomes a priority, and Medicare is essential to that healthcare. Our bodies change, and we require more medical attention to ensure we stay healthy and active, where Medicare comes in to support—especially older adults.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily providing 65 years or older coverage. It is also available for people with specific disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease. But what does Medicare cover? Here are some ideas.
1. Organ Transplant
Medicare covers organ transplants, including cornea, heart, kidney, liver, lung, and pancreas transplants. The coverage also includes the costs of organ acquisition, testing, and the hospital stay for the transplant recipient. Meanwhile, it also saves patients from paying doctor’s fees.
Medicare covers the entire cost of the immunosuppressive drugs that the patient needs for the rest of their life. These drugs help prevent the patient’s immune system from rejecting the transplanted organ, making the organ transplant more successful.
2. Cardiac Valve Replacement
Medicare covers the cost of cardiac valve replacement surgery, a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cardiac valve. The coverage includes the replacement valve, the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist’s, and the hospital stay.
However, if the patient chooses a newer and more expensive valve, they may have to pay the difference in cost. When selecting a valve, it is essential to consider the pros and cons of each option. Patients should also discuss their options with their doctor to determine the best choice.
3. Valvuloplasty Procedure
Medicare also covers the cost of valvuloplasty procedures, which are minimally invasive surgical procedures used to repair a damaged or narrowed cardiac valve. The process involves inserting a catheter with a balloon on the end through a blood vessel and into the heart, where the balloon is inflated to widen the valve opening.
Medicare covers the cost of the procedure, including the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist’s fee, and the hospital stay. However, as with valve replacement surgery, if the patient chooses a newer and more expensive type of valvuloplasty, they may have to pay the difference in cost. However, remember to discuss the options with doctors to choose the best option.
4. Oral Health Services Linked to Neck Cancer
Medicare covers oral health services linked to neck cancer, including diagnostic tests, surgical procedures, and radiation therapy. The coverage includes the cost of the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist’s fee, and the hospital stay. If the patient needs radiation therapy, Medicare covers the treatment and equipment cost.
5. Routine and Preventive Dental Care Services
Medicare does not cover routine and preventive dental care services, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. However, some Medicare Advantage plans offer dental coverage. Private insurance companies that contract with Medicare offer these plans to provide additional benefits.
The dental coverage may include cleanings, fillings, extractions, and dentures. Dental coverage can help you maintain good oral health while reducing dental care’s financial burden. If considering dental range, research your options and choose a plan that meets your needs and budget.
Conclusion
Medicare is ideal because it covers various medical services, including hospitalization, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. It also offers flexibility in choosing the healthcare providers and hospitals you prefer.
Furthermore, Medicare has low out-of-pocket costs and provides financial protection against high medical bills. Lastly, Medicare is a government-funded program available to all eligible individuals, regardless of their income or health status.
Are you a senior looking for comprehensive and affordable health coverage solutions? Look no further than Magnolia65! We specialize in offering different Medicare plans that cater to your specific needs, whether coverage for hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, or more. In addition, we also provide dental and vision insurance for seniors to ensure their overall health and well-being. Get your Medicare card and sign up with Magnolia65 today!
Magnolia65, an insurance agency, is licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi.