Dental & Vision in the Medicare World

​Navigating the world of Medicare for dental and vision care in Nevada can seem like a complex maze, but with the right guidance, you can chart a course to ensure your oral and visual health needs are met. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the Medicare landscape for these essential services.

1. Understand Medicare Basics:
Learn the fundamentals of Nevada Medicare first. The cornerstone is Original Medicare, which comprises of Parts A (hospital insurance) and B (medical insurance). It's important to remember, though, that routine dental and vision care are NOT INCLUDED in Original Medicare. You are going to have to look toward private insurance companies.

2. Explore Medicare Advantage Plans:
Think about signing up for a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, which is provided by for-profit insurance providers recognized by Medicare. Dental and eye services are frequently covered under Medicare Advantage plans as additional benefits.

3. Stand-Alone Dental and Vision Plan:
Stand-Alone Dental and Vision insurance plans are another viable option. They can be used to complement a Medicare Advantage Plan or serve as your primary coverage if you are not a Medicare Advantage member. You don’t have to enroll in Medicare Advantage to have Dental and Vison Insurance.

4. Check for Network Providers:
Dental and vision programs frequently have provider networks. To maximize coverage and reduce out-of-pocket expenses, be sure that the Nevada dentists and eye doctors you choose are included in the plan's network.

5. Assess Premiums and Costs:
Know how your chosen plan will affect your finances. Like any insurance dental and vision plans might include deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and monthly fees or premiums. To measure the overall worth of the plan, compare these expenditures to the coverage offered.

6. Stay Informed About Changes:
It's important to review your coverage every year. If there have been any changes to your coverage, including dental and vision benefits, you should review your plan's Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). Be ready to make changes if necessary. For Medicare Advantage members this will need to be done during the Annual Enrollment Period (10/15 – 12/7).

7. Take Advantage of Preventive Services:
Preventive care is key to avoiding the high costs associated with major procedures. Make use of coverage for regular eye exams, dental cleanings, and oral exams to identify problems early and lower your chance of developing more serious concerns later.

​You don't have to figure out Medicare or dental and vision on your own; it might be a complicated system. For help understanding your options and making decisions, get in touch with Medicare.gov or the Nevada State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Nevada residents can even call Blue Sky Insurance at 702-410-8020!