Original Medicare
Coverage of Original Medicare in the Nexus archive.
- Medicare Advantage Initial Enrollment Period and Special Enrollment Periods
The article outlines four Medicare Advantage enrollment periods: Initial (seven months before/after turning 65), Annual (October 15–December 7), Open (January 1–March 31), and Special (for life events). Each period targets specific groups, with coverage effective dates varying by period. Changes during Open Enrollment take effect the first day of the following month.
- Does Medicare Pay for Hearing Aids?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover hearing aids or routine hearing exams, but Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage for hearing aids and related services. Hearing aid costs range from $100 to over $7,000, with OTC options averaging $930 and prescription devices averaging $3,300. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary diagnostic hearing tests ordered by a doctor.