Medicare 101: How to avoid pricey mistakes and choose the right plan

1047. Host Laura Adams cuts through the confusion and explains the basics of Medicare for anyone approaching 65 or helping a relative compare options. You’ll learn how parts of Medicare work, which expenses Medicare doesn’t cover, how to fill insurance gaps, avoid lifetime penalties, and the truth about costly Medicare myths.

Key Takeaways:

• Medicare Part A covers hospital and inpatient care (premium-free for most), while Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient services for a monthly premium ($202.90 in 2026).
• Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative that bundles Parts A, B, and usually D into a single plan with network restrictions and out-of-pocket caps, often adding basic dental and vision coverage.
• Original Medicare doesn't cover long-term care such as assisted living or nursing home stays, or routine dental, vision, and hearing care.
• Medigap protects against out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and 20% coinsurance left behind by Original Medicare, but it cannot be combined with Medicare Advantage.
• Missing your Initial Enrollment Period triggers lifetime penalties unless you have active, creditable employer health coverage. 
• Enrollment isn't automatic unless you already receive Social Security benefits when you turn 65. 

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Transcripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.

Email: Laura@LauraDAdams.com or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308.

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