When Medicare’s open enrollment period begins on Oct. 15, the private insurers that underwrite Medicare Advantage plans—which already lure seniors with things traditional Medicare can’t cover, like eyeglasses, hearing aids, and gym memberships—will be free to add a long list of new benefits. Among those CMS will now allow, if they’re deemed health-related: Adult day care programs. Home aides to help with activities of daily living, like bathing and dressing. Palliative care at home for some patients. Home safety devices and modifications like grab bars and wheelchair ramps. Transportation to medical appointments. (Paula Span, New York Times)
