What Does Medicare Cover?

Medicare covers a wide range of health care services — but it doesn't cover everything. Knowing what’s included can help you avoid unexpected costs.

Original Medicare (Parts A & B):

• Part A – Hospital Insurance covers:
  • Inpatient hospital stays
  • Skilled nursing facility care (after a hospital stay)
  • Hospice care
  • Some home health services
• Part B – Medical Insurance covers:
  • Doctor visits (primary and specialists)
  • Outpatient care and surgeries
  • Preventive services (like flu shots and screenings)
  • Lab tests and X-rays
  • Durable medical equipment (like walkers or oxygen)
  • Mental health outpatient care
  • Some ambulance transportation

Together, Parts A and B provide coverage for medically necessary services, but you’ll still pay deductibles, copays, and 20% of the cost for most services under Part B.

What Medicare Doesn’t Cover:

• Routine dental, vision, or hearing care
• Prescription drugs (unless you have a Part D plan)
• Long-term care (like nursing homes)
• Cosmetic procedures
• Most care received outside the U.S.

To fill these gaps, many people add:

• A Part D drug plan
• A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy
• Or choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan that bundles coverage and adds extra benefits

Need to check if something specific is covered?
🔗 Is my test, item, or service covered? – Medicare.gov

Tip: Even if a service is covered, Medicare may only pay if it’s considered “medically necessary.”

Need help understanding your coverage?
Tap “Contact Us” or “Virtual Appointment” in the app to speak with a licensed Medicare expert.

This app is for educational purposes only and is not affiliated with the U.S. government or CMS.