6 Surprising Medicare Benefits
Are you aware of all the benefits that Medicare offers? While most people are aware of the typical benefits that come with Medicare, such as hospital coverage and doctor visits, there are some less well-known benefits that can be a lifesaver for many individuals. Let’s take a closer look at six surprising Medicare benefits that you may not have known about.
From acupuncture to weight loss counseling, these benefits can provide critical support for a wide range of health issues. Whether you’re a long-time Medicare beneficiary or just getting started with the program, it’s important to understand all the benefits that are available to you. By taking advantage of these benefits, you can get the care and support you need to stay healthy and live your best life.
Acupuncture: If you have chronic lower back pain lasting at least 12 weeks, you can visit an acupuncturist up to 12 times in 90 days. If you improve as a result, you could get eight more visits. This benefit is only available for patients with lower back pain, but it can be very effective for this condition.
Therapy: Medicare Part B covers medically necessary psychotherapy, including ongoing individual therapy, group therapy, or family counseling. The number of covered mental health visits varies depending on your plan, so reach out if you would like me to check on your benefits.
Opioid treatment programs: These treatment programs are covered for people diagnosed with opioid use disorder. Opioid use treatment programs are pretty comprehensive—they include substance use counseling, individual and group therapy, and medication (for emergency overdoses, reducing cravings, and helping patients get through withdrawals).
Ambulance transportation: If you need to be transported in an ambulance, the ride might be covered based on two criteria. If you’re being transported for medically necessary services, and if a different form of transportation would be medically dangerous, then you won’t need to worry about an uncovered ambulance ride.
Weight loss counseling: Medicare Part B covers obesity behavioral counseling for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above. These therapy sessions help patients evaluate and change their diets, start and stick to exercise programs, and lose weight to improve their health.
Getting a second opinion before surgery: If surgery is not an emergency, Medicare Part B will help you get a second doctor’s opinion in some cases. If you aren’t sure whether you should undergo surgery, you can ask to speak to another doctor before moving forward. If the second doctor contradicts your first doctor, then Part B will even cover a third opinion to help settle the matter.
While Medicare is a comprehensive health insurance program, many people are unaware of its full benefits. The six benefits discussed in this article – acupuncture, therapy, opioid treatment programs, ambulance transportation, weight loss counseling, and getting a second opinion before surgery – are just a few examples of Medicare's surprising benefits.
If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, it’s important to take advantage of all the benefits available. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, mental health issues, or addiction, Medicare can help provide the care and support you need to stay healthy.