PLANTATION, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Open enrollment for Medicare coverage in 2018 begins October 15 and ends on December 7, 2017. The Open Enrollment period provides Medicare recipients with an annual opportunity to select or modify their Medicare plan for the next year. And since coverage options do change, DentalPlans.com recommends reviewing all plans and what they include before moving forward with a new or re-enrolling in an existing plan.
“Those who have chosen a Medicare Advantage plan to receive dental coverage (and other benefits not provided by Original Medicare) should be aware that Medicare Advantage plan providers can and do change the coverage options annually. So, before signing up, it’s important to closely review, consider, and understand how these options can impact you,” said Bill Chase, Vice President of Marketing for DentalPlans.com
When reviewing Medicare Advantage plans it is recommended people look particularly for changes in cost-sharing, premiums, dental and vision coverage, and the list of prescription drugs covered by the plan. It is also important that they check to see if there are any changes in the plan’s providers’ network. Additionally, it is recommended that they compare other available plans. Medicare's Plan Finder tool is a great resource for comparing plans. For further assistance, one can call 1-800-MEDICARE or their State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
Medicare and Dental Coverage
Neither Original Medicare nor Medigap cover routine dental care, such as dental exams or cleanings, or restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures. Emergency dental care may be provided, but only in very specific circumstances.
"Dental care is so important and with all that we know now about the significant impact that oral health has on one's overall health, it is unfortunate that Medicare still does not include dental coverage," said Chase.
Dental Savings for Medicare Recipients
If receiving Medicare, recipients cannot purchase health or dental insurance from the Affordable Care Marketplaces. Medicare recipients can choose to purchase a standalone dental insurance plan from the private market.
Although some Medicare Advantage Plans do include dental coverage, recipients living outside of major cities may find that there are no Medicare Advantage insurers in their area. According to a recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation, 147 counties across 14 states lack a Medicare Advantage insurer this year.
Dental savings plans, an alternative to traditional dental insurance, help make dental care affordable for Medicare members. Dental savings plans provide 10%-60% savings on dental care needs and include a nationwide network of dentists. The plans available on DentalPlans.com range from $79.95-$199.95 annually and include some major, well-known providers. Many plans also include savings on vision and hearing care. Select plans provide telehealth services that make getting basic healthcare far more convenient and affordable.
"For many, having a dental savings plan is the only way they get the care they need and save in the process – often the savings amount to hundreds of dollars for those who need restorative treatments," said Chase. "We don't want people to have to choose between paying their rent or getting the dental care they need and deserve. That is just one of the many reasons why we offer dental savings plans at such an affordable price."
Find out more about dental savings plans on DentalPlans.com.
About DentalPlans.com
DentalPlans.com, founded in 1999, is a leading dental and health savings online marketplace in the U.S., helping more than a million people to affordably access quality healthcare services. Our mission is to empower consumers with the tools, information, and services that they need to live happier, healthier lives. www.dentalplans.com.
