By Randall Garcia | Medicare Pro 

If you’re nearing retirement or currently navigating your Medicare options, it’s absolutely essential to avoid three common — and costly — Medicare mistakes.

These missteps could lead to thousands of dollars lost in unnecessary medical bills, prescription costs, or gaps in coverage. But the good news? They’re 100% avoidable if you know what to look out for.

Let’s break down the top 3 Medicare mistakes and how to protect yourself from them.

1. Choosing the Wrong Medicare Plan

At first glance, it might seem simple — just pick a plan and move on. But Medicare is anything but simple.

Why This Mistake Happens:

• Medicare is complex and can be difficult to navigate alone.

• Even highly educated individuals — doctors, lawyers, and professors — get overwhelmed.

• Online research often leads to outdated or conflicting information.

The Risks of Choosing the Wrong Plan:

• High out-of-pocket costs for hospitalization, doctor visits, or prescriptions.

• Surprise expenses from plans with high deductibles or limited networks.

• Lack of prescription drug coverage you thought was included.

How to Avoid It:

• Work with a licensed, certified, independent Medicare agent.

• At Medicare Pro, we offer free consultations — no cost, no obligation.

• We represent multiple insurance carriers to help you compare plans and find the right fit.

✅ Bottom line: The right agent can save you from the wrong plan.

2. Missing Your Enrollment Periods

Enrollment periods are specific windows of time to enroll, switch, or change your Medicare plan. Missing them could cost you big time.

Key Enrollment Periods to Know:

• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A 7-month window around your 65th birthday.

• Medigap Open Enrollment: 6 months after your Medicare Part B starts — no medical underwriting required.

• Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): Triggered by events like moving, retiring, or losing other coverage (usually last 60 days).

Why This Matters:

• Missing these windows may result in late penalties or gaps in coverage.

• You might be forced to go through medical underwriting — or be denied a better plan altogether.

Pro Tip:

• Don’t try to memorize all the rules — they change!

• Get help from a Medicare advisor to walk you through your specific situation.

• Stay updated — Medicare deadlines can vary and are updated annually.

✅ Bottom line: Mark your calendar and partner with someone who knows the timeline inside and out.

3. Not Reviewing Your Plan Every Year

Even if you picked the right plan this year, it doesn’t mean it’ll be the right plan next year.

Why Annual Reviews Matter:

• Plan benefits and costs change every year.

• You might become eligible for better coverage or lower premiums.

• Medicare reform laws (like 2025 changes under the Inflation Reduction Act) can significantly impact your current plan.

What You Could Miss:

• New benefits or cost savings

• Updated drug formularies or provider networks

• Opportunities to switch to a better plan during Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7)

What You Should Do:

• Schedule a yearly review with your Medicare agent.

• Don’t let your plan auto-renew without checking the details.

• Stay informed through a trusted Medicare professional like Medicare Pro.

✅ Bottom line: Review your plan annually. Don’t set it and forget it.

Final Thoughts: Avoid These 3 Mistakes to Stay Protected

Let’s recap the 3 biggest Medicare mistakes you want to avoid:

1. Choosing the wrong plan 

2. Missing enrollment periods 

3. Failing to review your plan annually

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you thousands and give you peace of mind knowing your healthcare is covered — the right way.

Need Help Navigating Medicare?

At Medicare Pro, we’re here to serve you with honesty, integrity, and expert guidance. Our consultations are always:

✅ Free

✅ No pressure

✅ Focused on what’s best for you 

📞 Call or Text Us Today: (210) 245-5519

🌐 Visit Us Online: www.MedicarePro.online

💬 Schedule Your Free Consultation: Book Now

Don’t face Medicare alone. Let us help you avoid costly mistakes and choose the best path forward.