What are some lesser-known benefits or services that my Medicare plan might cover that I could be missing out on?

Question

Brian Moore · Accepted Answer

This is a perfect question, and a great one especially in today’s time, as Medicare Advantage plans are introducing more creative and innovative benefits to differentiate themselves. You might find lesser-known Medicare Advantage perks like quarterly allowances for rent, utilities, groceries, over-the-counter items like pain relievers, or even transportation to medical appointments and gym memberships for wellness programs. Meanwhile, Medicare Supplement plans, such as G or N, often include a valuable international travel benefit for emergency care abroad, which can be crucial if you’re overseas and need treatment unexpectedly.

Answered by Brian Moore on March 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Brian Moore Medicare Insurance Agent

Cynthia Nakaya · Answer

Different plans have different benefits, of course, but some benefits are more common than others. 

For example, over-the-counter benefits are extremely common, with benefits amounts varying greatly from plan to plan. Your benefit may be as low as $15 per quarter or as high as $150 a month, sometimes more. Keep in mind, extra benefits vary depending on geographic location, Plan Sponsor, pre-existing conditions, and even vary by plans within each company! 

A lesser-known benefit that some plans have is telehealth. It allows the patient to talk with a provider on a computer, tablet, smartphone, or even a regular phone. The convenience of this benefit cannot be overstated. After all, who wants to go to the doctor with a minor cold, flu, or pink eye? Be sure to follow your physician's advice and go to urgent care if you're feeling especially ill.

Some plans have technical help lines, so if you need help downloading an app on those confounded smart phones, you have someone to turn to.

If you are curious about your extra benefits, call your agent and get the details. I'm also available to help you!

Gregg Matheny · Answer

Most plan benefits are very visible, but the ones that I find are most often under utilized are the fitness benefits related to wearable devices. In some cases there is also an amount that can be reimbursed for the purchase of gym equipment. Also, most plans incentivize healthy habits. You may call the member services number on the back of your card and ask if there is a reward for getting a flu shot or reporting daily number of steps.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Gregory Dunham · Answer

Generally, Medicare Advantage plans offer the most additional benefits beyond Hospital and Medical coverage.

This can include, Vision, Dental, Hearing, Gym Membership, Acupuncture, Meal Delivery, Over The counter Allowances, and Transportation.  The list goes on, and what is available will depend on where you live.

What are some lesser-known benefits or services that my Medicare plan might cover that I could be missing out on?

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What are some lesser-known benefits or services that my Medicare plan might cover that I could be missing out on?

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A non-government resource website