(And Why Your Supplement or Advantage Plan Follows Medicare’s Lead)

One of the most common questions people ask is: “Will Medicare cover this?”

The truth is simple: Medicare is the boss.

• If Original Medicare doesn’t cover a service, your Medicare Supplement won’t pay for it either.

• Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least what Medicare covers, but some may choose to add extra benefits (for example, routine dental, vision, hearing, or even routine acupuncture).

That said, Advantage plans are not a free pass. Extra coverage usually comes with rules like prior authorizations, referrals, or specific provider networks.

Example: Acupuncture

Medicare Part B covers up to 12 acupuncture visits in 90 days—but only for chronic low back pain (lasting 12+ weeks, with no known cause). If you want acupuncture for another reason, Original Medicare won’t cover it.

Some Advantage plans go further and offer routine acupuncture benefits—but you’ll still need to follow their rules for authorizations and approved providers.

How to Check What’s Covered

Instead of guessing, you can look it up right from your phone:

Medicare What’s Covered App

• Free to download on Apple App Store or Google Play

• Shows you exactly what Medicare will and won’t pay for

• Easy to use and updated with current information

Or, check coverage online at Medicare.gov/coverage.

Why This Matters

Knowing what’s covered helps you avoid surprises. Many people assume their supplement or Advantage plan will “add” coverage—but really, these plans mirror Medicare’s rules first, and Advantage plans may add extras with conditions.

Explore More on Our Website

• Curious about the difference between Medicare Advantage and Supplements? Read our guide here.

• Wondering how Prescription Drug Plans fit into your coverage? Learn more here.

• Need help with Group Benefits or Marketplace coverage for your family? Explore your options here.

Ready for Clarity? We Can Help.

Sorting through all the options doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team at Mere Benefits has helped thousands of people understand their Medicare choices.

📞 Call us at 904-654-5450 during business hours (M–F, 9–5)
🌐 Or visit us online at www.merebenefits.com

We’ll walk you through your choices and help you find a plan that fits your needs — at no cost and no obligation.

Bottom Line: Medicare is the boss. Supplements follow it exactly, and Advantage plans must meet Medicare’s standards (sometimes adding more). Use the Medicare app to check coverage before you schedule care — and call our team when you’re ready to find the plan that’s right for you.

#simplyforyourbenefit