How do many Medicare Advantage plans enhance services beyond Original Medicare?

Many Medicare Advantage plans enhance services beyond Original Medicare primarily by incorporating additional benefits that are not covered under Original Medicare. These enhancements often include services like vision and dental coverage as well as wellness programs, which can significantly improve the overall health and well-being of enrollees.

Original Medicare mainly covers hospital and medical services, along with specific outpatient services, but does not include many routine services that are essential for comprehensive healthcare. By offering these additional services, Medicare Advantage plans aim to promote preventive care and manage healthcare needs more effectively, allowing enrollees to receive a broader range of healthcare support.

Specialized services for just a single health condition may not represent the overall enhancements provided by these plans. Limiting access to providers could actually detract from the benefits of a plan, and eliminating premiums completely is not typical for Medicare Advantage plans, which usually involve some cost-sharing mechanisms. Therefore, offering add-on services like vision, dental, and wellness programs is a key way Medicare Advantage plans provide added value.