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

Dana Dane · Answer

Without knowing what your plan is, that question should be answered by your agent. If you do not have an agent, please call your insurance company for that information. You could also request that you have a local agent assigned to you which costs you nothing.

Answered by Dana Dane on April 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 6 other states

Answered by Dana Dane Medicare Insurance Agent

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Did you know your Medicare plan might include hidden perks you're not using? From monthly OTC allowances and free gym memberships to dental, vision, hearing, meal delivery, and even rides to the doctor — many Medicare Advantage plans go way beyond basic coverage. Some even offer in-home help, teletherapy, and free smartphones for qualifying members. Don’t leave benefits on the table — check your plan or talk to a licensed agent to unlock everything you’re entitled to!

Answered by Leslie Kaz on June 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AZ & 7 other states

Answered by Leslie Kaz Medicare Insurance Agent

Carol Thompson · Answer

24/7 nursing hotline is one of the services that people may not aware of. 

Some of the extra benefits could be over the counter (OTC) that you would normally pay for out of pocket.  Like Tylenol, cold meds, band aids, etc.

Todd Bostic · Answer

Travel expenses such as being able to get a ride to and from the doctor or pharmacy, depending on the plan.

Sam Silva · Answer

Especially those on Medicare Advantage plans—often overlook valuable benefits that could save money or improve their quality of life. eg: -  Fitness Programs,  Routine Dental, Vision & Hearing, Transportation Services, Meal Delivery,  Over-the-Counter (OTC), ect....

Answered by Sam Silva on April 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NJ & 7 other states

Answered by Sam Silva Medicare Insurance Agent

Kimberly Hargis · Answer

Most Medicare Advantage plans have extra's like Dental, Vision, Hearing and gym memberships. Depending on which state and which plan will determine if you get OTC, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, home care, food cards, and more.

Answered by Kimberly Hargis on July 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, FL & KY

Answered by Kimberly Hargis Medicare Insurance Agent

Sophia Davis · Answer

Rewards! Many carriers offer a rewards program for doing certain things like a Flu Shot or Wellness Exam. Many clients simply leave this money on the table because they don't know about it.

Adam Ashby · Answer

Depending on the Carrier you choose there are some benefits that are available that some individuals do not think of. Some companies are offering food benefits, gym membership, shuttle services and even companionship benefits providing one on one social care. It is important that you allow a Medicare Broker review your needs and your available benefits to maximize the areas of help you need.

Answered by Adam Ashby on April 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, NE, UT, WA & WY

Answered by Adam Ashby Medicare Insurance Agent

Sandy Hammond · Answer

It really depends on what type of Medicare plan that you have.  Do you have a Medicare Supplement plan along with a stand alone Prescription Drug Plan, or do you have a Medicare Advantage Plan with a built in Prescription Drug plan?
We would really need to know this information first, before providing a list of possible lesser-know benefits or services your plan might cover.
The best thing to do is to call the Member Services number listed on your member ID card and they should be able to assist you.

John Motsinger · Answer

Most medicare plans have zero copays on preventive screenings like prostate exam, mammogram screenings and a colonoscopy.

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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