The Biggest Medicare Myths People Still Believe (And the Truth)

Health insurance is a complex system to navigate, and Medicare is no exception. Unfortunately, the complexity has led to several Medicare myths and misconceptions spreading across the internet and from person to person. This only leads to more confusion, and in some cases, it can cause people to miss enrollment periods and face long-term penalties.

To help you avoid this situation altogether, we’re going to clear up some of the most common Medicare misunderstandings, so you are informed about your coverage and can make the best choice for you.

5 Medicare Myths You Might Still Believe

There are five common misconceptions about Medicare that we often hear. We’ll clear up these myths and help you determine fact from fiction.

Myth 1: You Can Always Enroll in Medicare

Truth: You must enroll in Medicare during an enrollment period.

When you first turn 65, you have an initial enrollment period that spans over seven months. The Social Security website has a calculator based on your birthday to help you determine when this period begins. There are also special enrollment periods, which are based on your age, your employment’s health coverage, or your spouse’s health coverage. There’s also a general enrollment period from January to March, but this period often comes with penalties on your plan.

Open Enrollment, on the other hand, is from October 15 to December 7 each year, and you are able to make changes to your current plan during this time.

Myth 2: Medicare Is Completely Free

Truth: There may be extra costs for more robust coverage.

A common Medicare misunderstanding is that all of Medicare is completely free. Medicare A is typically free, but Medicare B often comes with a monthly fee. You will also have to pay whatever your deductible may be for both Plan A and Plan B. Plans C and D may also come with additional costs, but you’ll have to decide which plans are worth it for you and your family.

Myth 3: Medicare Is the Same as Medicaid

Truth: Medicare and Medicaid are two separate programs.

While the names’ similarity often causes confusion, Medicare and Medicaid are two different government programs that help with health care coverage. Medicare is specifically for people who are 65 or older and is completely funded by the federal government.

Medicaid, on the other hand, is for people and families below a certain income level. It’s also funded by both federal and state governments, so it can vary from state to state. If you qualify, you can enroll in both programs.

Myth 4: Medicare Covers Everything

Truth: How much Medicare covers will depend on the Medicare plans you have.

Medicare doesn’t automatically cover everything, but plans B, C, and D can help supplement the basic coverage offered in plan A. Medicare A covers the following:

• Inpatient hospital stays
• Skilled nursing facility care
• Hospice care
• Some home health care

Medicare B coverage includes:

• Doctor visits
• Outpatient care
• Preventive services
• Durable medical equipment

Medicare C (or Medicare Advantage plans) can help cover dental, vision, and hearing care. Medicare D assists with prescription drugs.

Even with all these plans, there are some things Medicare won’t cover, such as long-term home assistance or medical care outside the US.

Myth 5: You’re Automatically Enrolled in Medicare

Truth: You must sign up for Medicare during your enrollment period.

In most cases, you need to proactively enroll in Medicare and not wait for Social Security to send you your benefits card. As soon as you turn 65, you should be looking into what plans you want to enroll in and make sure you sign up before you miss the initial enrollment period to avoid penalties.

Find the True Answers about Medicare with Senior Health Advocates

While we gave you some answers in this article, we know you likely still have questions. Medicare coverage can be very personal, and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to choose the right plan for you.

At Senior Health Advocates, we’ll walk you through all the available plans and show you what coverage is best for your situation. If you want a guide to help you navigate the complex world of Medicare, reach out to our team today—we’d be happy to help!