What Original Medicare skips, and the ways people fill those gaps. Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.
- Does Medicare cover dental? What's excluded and four ways to pay less
Why Original Medicare and Medigap exclude routine dental care, the narrow hospital exceptions, and the dental insurance, Medicare Advantage and discount options.
- Medicare and vision: what's covered for cataracts, glaucoma and eye exams
Original Medicare excludes routine eye exams and glasses but covers medically necessary eye care, including cataract surgery, glaucoma tests and diabetic eye exams.
- Medicare and hearing aids: what's covered and the over-the-counter option
Original Medicare covers diagnostic hearing exams but not hearing aids; the OTC hearing aid category, Medicare Advantage benefits and other ways to save.