10 surprising perks in Medicare Advantage plans for 2024
Your may plan may offer many health, fitness, and mental health benefits. Here are the commons ones to look for — and use.
Each year during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, you have an opportunity to review your benefits. (It runs from January 1 to March 31 every year.) That’s the time to make sure you have what you need and to understand all the perks your plan offers.
Not every Medicare Advantage plan is the same, so make sure to check your plan’s website to confirm your benefits. Most have some pretty cool features. And many offer these 10 things to take advantage of.
1. Your own membership portal
Your member account portal is the place to go to unlock all the perks of your plan. On the website, take a few minutes to connect with your plan — and all the resources it provides.
Once you’re registered, you’ll be able to access everything else. If you need help, you can call the customer service team for your plan.
2. Access to one-of-a-kind benefits
Once you’ve logged in to your membership portal, take some time to browse the different pages. You may find perks that help you:
- Pay for over-the-counter medicines, hearing aids, and transportation to medical visits
- Get diabetes care management
- Get foot care for chronic conditions
- Make virtual care appointments
Plus, you may be eligible for an annual in-home health visit at no extra cost. You can schedule your appointment online or by calling 877-302-3672.
3. Your own primary care provider
A good relationship with a primary care provider (PCP) is key to good health. They’ll help care for you when you’re sick — and get you advanced care when you need it.
So, whether you already have a doctor you love or you’re looking for a new provider, start with your member portal. You’ll be able to find providers that are in your plan’s network.
4. Ways to lower your prescription drug costs
Many people over age 65 take at least one prescription medicine daily. These medications treat chronic conditions and help you stay strong. But costs can add up.
Your drug plan can help you compare prices. This service may also help you get the medications you need, on time, when you sign up for home delivery. You can also ask your PCP to help you get set up.
5. A focus on preventive care
Keeping up with checkups, screenings, and immunizations helps you detect — or avoid — health issues before they become bigger problems. During your Annual Wellness Visit, your PCP will review your health history and make your preventive care plan. That can help you maintain or even improve your health. (Bonus: Your wellness visit is free.)
After you have an in-home visit, the clinician who examined you will share a summary of the exam with your regular doctor so they stay up to date on any new findings. (Learn more about why you need both an Annual Wellness Visit and an in-home health visit here.)
6. Annual vision care
It’s important to get your eyes checked and stay on top of your sight. An eye care provider can monitor your vision and detect signs of conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Log in to your plan’s site or call the number on your member ID card to learn more about your vision benefits.
7. Hearing tests and hearing aids
The older you are, the more likely you are to have trouble hearing. Hearing loss affects 1 in 3 people ages 65 and older, and 40% of those over 70. It can make you feel isolated, cause fuzzy thinking, and lead to dangerous falls.
But special devices can help. Some plans may provide checkups and hearing aids.
Don’t miss your chance to book your no-cost in-home visit
We’ll bring the clinician to you! Call 877-302-3672 to schedule or book online
8. Twice-yearly dental checkups
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, you want to see a dental care provider regularly. Untreated cavities could result in serious infections. And mouth problems also can cause problems in other areas of the body. For example, an issue in your gums could contribute to heart disease.
Many plans provide coverage to prevent (and treat) dental concerns. You can find out what your plan covers in your member portal. And, as always, you can call the customer care team with any questions about your coverage.
9. Free membership to a gym
Regular exercise can help prevent bone loss, relieve pain, strengthen your muscles, and even boost your immunity. Your plan may include an in-person fitness program or online classes.
10. Access to mental health care
Your mind and your body are connected. Depression and anxiety are linked to physical illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Plus, feeling mentally well is key to overall well-being.
Your plan may include a behavioral health resource. Check to see if your member ID has a behavioral health number to call.
Sources:
Medicare Advantage plans cover all Medicare services: Medicare.gov
Joining a plan: Medicare.gov
Keep an eye your vision health: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hearing loss in older adults: National Coalition on Aging
Oral health conditions: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Heart Association
