Warning: These Common Medical Costs Aren’t Covered by Medicare in 2025!

If you’re on Medicare, you probably expect it to cover most of your health care needs. And while it does handle a lot, there are still quite a few things it doesn’t pay for—and some of them might really surprise you.

Let’s walk through what Medicare skips in 2025, so you’re not caught off guard when the bills show up.

1. Dental, Vision, and Hearing? You’re Mostly On Your Own

Yep, this one shocks a lot of people. Medicare doesn’t cover routine stuff like teeth cleanings, glasses, or hearing aids. That means if you need a root canal or a new pair of bifocals, you’ll probably be paying for it yourself—unless you’ve got a Medicare Advantage plan that includes those perks.

If you rely on your hearing or sight to stay independent (and let’s be real, most of us do), this is one of those gaps you’ll want to plan for.

2. Long-Term Care Isn’t Covered

Need help getting dressed, bathing, or just getting around day-to-day? That’s called custodial care, and unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t pay for it—whether it’s at home or in a nursing facility.

This can get expensive fast. If you’re worried about needing long-term care later, it might be worth looking into other insurance options or planning ahead financially.

3. Cosmetic Surgery? Think Again

Unless it’s medically necessary (like reconstructive surgery after an accident), cosmetic procedures like facelifts or liposuction are not covered. Medicare draws a hard line here.

4. Some Prescription Drugs Are Still Off the Table

Medicare Part D helps with a lot of medications, but not all. For example, drugs used for weight loss—like Wegovy and Zepbound—are currently excluded. Even if your doctor prescribes them, you’ll probably have to pay out of pocket.

So if you’re managing a chronic condition or on specialty meds, double-check what’s actually covered by your plan.

5. No Help With Getting to the Doctor

Need a ride to your appointment? Medicare doesn’t typically cover non-emergency transportation. Unless it’s a medical necessity and cleared by your doctor, you’ll need to find (and fund) your own way there.

6. Hospital Room Extras? You Pay for the Comforts

If you’re in the hospital and want a private room (just for peace and quiet), a phone, or even a TV? That’s all on you. Medicare only pays for a shared room and medically necessary services.

7. Routine Physicals and Foot Care

Medicare offers a “wellness visit” every year, but it’s not the same as a traditional physical exam. And if you’re heading in just for a check-up or to get your toenails trimmed? Don’t count on coverage—unless there’s a medical reason, like diabetes-related foot issues.

8. Massage Therapy Is Still a No

Even if your back pain is screaming for a massage, Medicare won’t cover it. Not even if your doctor recommends it.

9. Doctors Who Don’t Accept Medicare = No Coverage

Some doctors “opt out” of Medicare entirely. If you still want to see them, you’ll probably be paying out of pocket—unless it’s a true emergency.

10. Over-the-Counter Stuff and Supplements

Pain relievers, vitamins, probiotics—if you can buy it off the shelf, Medicare’s not covering it. Even if your doctor tells you to take it.

11. Anything That’s Not Medically ‘Necessary’

If Medicare doesn’t think it’s medically essential, they won’t pay. That’s why documentation from your doctor is key if you’re going through something complex.

So, What Can You Do About All This?

Honestly, the best thing you can do is be proactive:

• Look into Medicare Advantage plans if you want dental, vision, or hearing.

• Consider a Medigap policy to help cover those out-of-pocket costs.

• Budget for the things Medicare doesn’t handle—especially if you know you’ll need them.

• And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Medicare counselors and insurance advisors can really break it down for your specific situation.