6 Things Health Insurance Will Not Cover
Health insurance can be terrific in many cases, however there are some procedures, medications, and aids that it won’t cover. While many individuals sign up for health coverage Medicare only, it might also be beneficial to explore supplemental health care plans for Medicare. Some program providers include Aetna, United Health Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, Anthem, Mutual of Omaha. Looking into mutual Omaha Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans—such as the Omaha Insurance company Plan G 2023—can be a great place to start. Additionally, Medicare drug Part D can help individuals cover the cost of prescription drugs, although this is optional. To decide which health care resources are best for you personally, it’s important to acknowledge some of the things that health insurance will not cover:
1. Cosmetic surgery
If the cosmetic surgery in question is believed to be medically necessary, it’s typically the only way that it will be covered by health insurance. Therefore, surgeries such as breast augmentation, facelifts, liposuction, and dermabrasion probably won’t be covered in most cases.
2. Some medications
Over-the-counter medications—such as supplements, vitamins, and non-prescription drugs—are not covered by health insurance. Additionally, there are some prescription drugs that are uncovered. However, there are a few options available to you if you are in need of a prescription drug that isn’t covered by insurance. Before anything else, it’s probably best to try asking your doctor to provide you with a substitute prescription that is covered. If this isn’t possible, a good next step is to request an exception from your insurer on the basis of medical necessity. If this request is denied, filing an appeal with your insurer might be in your best interest.
3. Hearing aids
While it may come as a surprise, plenty of health insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids. Unfortunately, this means that many individuals go without proper support and equipment for their hearing difficulties. However, The Hearing Loss Association of America works to provide helpful information about available assistance programs in each state related to hearing aids. Additionally, a hearing care program is offered by AARP for its members.
4. Vision and dental care
Surprisingly, many health care plans provide limited coverage when it comes to vision and dental care. Care such as routine dental cleanings, cosmetic dental procedures, and eye examinations for contact lenses or prescription glasses are all examples of what is often uncovered or might only have limited coverage.
5. Weight loss programs and surgery
Many insurance plans do not cover weight loss related needs such as programs, nutritional counseling, and surgery (also known as bariatric surgery). However, it’s important to check with your insurer to figure out if this is the case, as some insurers do offer coverage. If you decide that receiving weight loss surgery at a private clinic is your best option, financing options are available for application.
6. Fertility treatments
Fertility treatments such as IVF—also known as in vitro fertilization—are typically not covered by health insurance. However, there is a potential that treatments will be covered, albeit limited and subject to certain conditions. Thus, it’s good to check with your health care provider to determine whether or not fertility treatments are covered.