Understanding Humana's Fitness Benefit
For seniors enrolled in many of its Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, Humana offers a free SilverSneakers® fitness program membership. This is one of the many extra benefits that Medicare Advantage plans can provide, unlike Original Medicare (Parts A and B), which does not cover standard gym memberships. This partnership with SilverSneakers provides eligible members with access to thousands of fitness centers and online classes nationwide at no additional cost.
How SilverSneakers Works for Humana Members
SilverSneakers is a comprehensive fitness program designed specifically for older adults. When included with your Humana Medicare Advantage plan, it offers far more than just a place to work out. The benefits often include:
- Access to facilities: Use of standard amenities like cardio equipment, weights, and pools at participating locations.
- Fitness classes: Tailored classes for seniors, including yoga, strength training, and more.
- Virtual options: Access to online fitness classes and on-demand content for home workouts.
- Community: Participation in social events and a supportive community of peers.
Keep in mind that plan availability and specific benefits can vary by location. It is always best to verify your specific plan's details to confirm your eligibility and included benefits.
The Critical Difference: Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
It's important to understand why Humana can offer this benefit. The distinction lies in the two main types of Medicare coverage. Here is a simple comparison:
| Feature | Original Medicare (Parts A & B) | Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
|---|---|---|
| Administered By | The federal government | Private insurance companies approved by Medicare |
| Basic Coverage | Hospital insurance (A) and medical insurance (B) | Includes A & B, and often Part D (Prescription Drugs) |
| Gym Membership Coverage | Generally does not cover | Many plans, including Humana's, often include programs like SilverSneakers |
| Additional Benefits | Few to none | Can include fitness, dental, vision, and hearing benefits |
| Enrollment | Automatically enrolled at age 65 | Must choose and enroll in a specific plan |
Because Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private companies like Humana, they have the flexibility to bundle extra perks, such as gym memberships, into their plan offerings.
Steps to Verify Your Humana Coverage
If you have a Humana plan or are considering one, follow these steps to confirm if a gym membership is included:
- Check Your Plan Documents: Look through your plan's Evidence of Coverage or benefit summary. These documents outline all the covered services and supplemental benefits.
- Log into MyHumana: Access your online account at the Humana website. Many benefits, including eligibility for SilverSneakers, can be viewed directly from your member dashboard.
- Visit the SilverSneakers Website: Go to the official SilverSneakers website and use their eligibility tool to check if your Humana plan is covered. You'll need your Humana member ID card.
- Contact Humana Directly: If you are still unsure, call the customer service number on the back of your member ID card. A representative can give you the most accurate and up-to-date information on your specific plan's benefits.
Humana's Other Wellness Options: Go365
In addition to SilverSneakers, many Humana Medicare Advantage members have access to the Go365® wellness program. This is a wellness and rewards program that encourages healthy habits. You can earn points for completing various health-related activities, which can be redeemed for gift cards and other rewards. For members with a SilverSneakers benefit, attending classes can also earn Go365 rewards.
Conclusion: Staying Active with Humana
While it is incorrect to assume all Humana plans cover gym access, it's a valuable fact that many of their Medicare Advantage plans do, primarily through the widely available SilverSneakers program. This no-cost benefit is a significant perk for seniors seeking to maintain an active lifestyle. By checking your specific plan, you can easily determine if this excellent fitness option is available to you. Remember, keeping active is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health.
For more information on fitness benefits and a full list of participating locations, visit the official SilverSneakers website: https://www.silversneakers.com.
