If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, you probably chose it for the reliable coverage it offers—no network restrictions, predictable out-of-pocket costs, and strong protection for hospital and doctor bills.
But what many Medigap members don’t realize is that some plans also include extra perks that go beyond the basics. These aren’t always front and center during enrollment, and they don’t show up on your Medicare card—but they can quietly add real value to your health, your lifestyle, and even your wallet. In this post, we’ll walk through some of the most common Medigap extras that may already be included in your plan.
1. Fitness Memberships and Wellness Programs
Some Medigap plans offer complimentary gym memberships through programs like SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, or Renew Active. These programs give you access to a wide network of gyms, fitness centers, and community classes across the country.
Whether you enjoy yoga, swimming, weight training, or just walking on a treadmill indoors, this benefit helps you stay active—without paying extra for a gym membership.
Even if you’re not into fitness right now, having access to these resources may encourage you to start.
2. Discounts on Vision, Hearing, and Dental Services
While Original Medicare and Medigap plans don’t cover routine vision, hearing, or dental services, some Medigap carriers offer discounts through partner networks.
These may include:
- Reduced-cost eye exams and glasses
- Savings on hearing aids and hearing exams
- Discounts on dental cleanings and x-rays
- Access to dental provider networks with negotiated lower rates
These aren’t full insurance benefits, but they can still help you save significantly on services that Medicare doesn’t cover.
3. 24/7 Nurse Advice Lines
Need health advice at night or over the weekend? Some Medigap carriers provide access to 24-hour nurse hotlines, staffed by registered nurses who can answer questions, offer guidance, and help you decide whether you need to be seen by a doctor.
This is a convenient way to get peace of mind—especially if you’re unsure whether something is urgent or can wait until your next appointment.
4. Health and Wellness Discounts
Certain Medigap plans include access to discount programs for health-related products and services, such as:
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Vitamins and supplements
- Over-the-counter medications
- Medical alert devices
These discounts are usually available through third-party wellness networks, and while they’re not the same as full coverage, they can stretch your healthcare budget.
5. Travel Coverage for Foreign Emergency Care
Many Medigap plans—specifically Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N—include foreign travel emergency coverage. This benefit can reimburse up to 80% of emergency medical care received abroad, with a $250 deductible and a $50,000 lifetime maximum.
If you plan to travel internationally, this hidden perk can offer real peace of mind—and potentially save you thousands in unexpected medical bills.
Why These Benefits Get Missed
Most of these perks are offered by the insurance company, not Medicare itself. That means they’re not standardized across all Medigap plans, and you won’t find them listed in your Medicare & You handbook. If no one walks you through what your specific plan includes, it’s easy to miss them.
Some people never realize they had access to free fitness classes or nurse advice lines simply because they never checked.
How to Find Out What You Have
Not sure what’s included with your current plan? It’s easy to find out:
- Call your Medigap carrier (the private insurance company that issued your plan) and ask for a list of added benefits.
- Log in to your carrier’s member portal to explore what’s available.
- Review your plan documents or welcome kit, which may include flyers or brochures about perks.
- Or, call us, and we’ll help you review what your plan offers and what other carriers might provide if you’re shopping around.
Don’t Leave Value on the Table
Your Medicare Supplement plan does a lot to protect your health and finances—but it might also offer tools and resources that make your day-to-day life healthier and easier. These perks don’t cost anything extra. You just have to know they’re there and how to use them.
At Medicare School, we help people understand not only what’s covered—but what’s included. If you’re not sure what your Medigap plan offers or want to compare perks across different carriers, we’re here to help.
Schedule a free call or reach us at 800-864-8890, and we’ll help you explore your benefits.