What Is A Medicare Flex Card For Seniors?

Dec 9, 2022

The proliferation of information regarding Medicare Flex Cards for Seniors has been rife, but there remains a deal of uncertainty. This is not surprising as most of the claims seem much too good to be true. Unfortunately, that is exactly the case. 

Still, that does not mean the flex card does not exist, nor that it has certain benefits. We’ll take you through the basics of the Medicare flex card so that you have a better idea of what is truth and what is fiction. 

Note: You can read about how to apply for a Medicare Flex Card for seniors. 

What is a Medicare flex card?

Medicare flex cards can be used by seniors to cover certain medical expenses including the  purchase of medical equipment; diagnostic devices; dental, vision, and hearing care which isn’t generally covered by the original Medicare; copayments and deductibles, as well as prescription and OTC medications. 

Especially when it comes to the coverage of prescription medication, it’s a good idea to consider Medicare (Part D). In order to get drug coverage, you have two options:

  1. Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) 
  2. Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) 

However, it is very important to note that not all flex cards offer the same benefits – some allow usage for only dental, vision, and hearing benefits while others offer more liberal copays and prescriptions over the counter. This depends on the provider you choose, and some differences include the provision of a Visa flex card or a Medicare flex card. Providers may also include some over-the-counter (OTC) coverage which others don’t.

Furthermore, depending on where you live, you may need to be dual eligible for a flex card (both Medicare and Medicaid). This is especially common in New York.

Learn more about these options by following the links above to the Modern Medicare Agency website for more detailed information, as Medicare (Part D) is often seen as being one of the most challenging aspects of Medicare to understand. 

Who qualifies for a Flex card?

In order to get a Medicare flex card, you must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B so that you are able to get a Medicare Advantage Plan. It’s important to note that Medicare Advantage Plans are not available in every state, and only certain private insurance carriers offer a flex card. 

It is also necessary to take into account the fact that once you enroll for a Medicare Advantage Plan through a private insurance broker, you will have to give up the original Medicare benefits that you would have received from the federal government. 

Take a thorough look at different insurance carriers in your area, as they may have different prices, as well as different plans. 

The benefits of a flex card

One of the primary benefits of a flex card is that you have very easy access to the money that’s been set aside, and the card can be used like you would a MasterCard. However, remember that it can only be used at specific service providers. 

Another benefit which intrigues many people is the fact that there are fewer hassles when it comes to submitting claims and waiting before being reimbursed. 

What to look out for before choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan with a Medicare flex card benefit

It’s essential that you consider exactly what you’ll need, and whether there are other plans that will more comprehensively cover those needs. For example, if a plan offers a Medicare flex card, but your preferred healthcare practitioners aren’t in that network, you may want to weigh up what is more important to you. 

Especially if you take prescription medication, take a good look at which medications will be covered as otherwise you will have to cover them yourself at the pharmacy. This can become very expensive, depending on the nature of your prescription medication. 

However, having said the above, seeing as plans can change from year to year it’s important that you take into consideration the benefits as a whole, rather than only one specific aspect. 

Final take

Unfortunately, there are too many unreliable claims being made, especially on television. It is vital that you make sure to contact a Medicare agent near you who will be able to give you the advice that you need, especially taking into account the benefits offered by the specific provider, as well as your geographical location. 

The agents at the Modern Medicare Agency will do just that and help you choose a plan that complements your needs, whether that be Medicare Supplement Plans (also known as Medigap), Medicare Advantage Plans, or Medicare (Part D). 

When it comes to healthcare, making the right choice is key to ensuring that you have the peace of mind that you deserve. Seeing as this is so important, it’s no surprise that the decision-making process comes with overwhelming uncertainty and a certain degree of trepidation. 

Let the Modern Medicare Agency make this a better experience through advice born of experience, compassion, and a real desire to help. 

Read More: For a detailed explanation of what Medicare is, visit this page.