7 Common Medicare Mistakes Seniors Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Medicare is designed to make healthcare more accessible for seniors, but the enrollment process can feel like a maze of deadlines, options, and hidden rules. A single mistake can mean higher costs—or worse, lapses in coverage when you need it most.

In fact, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly one in five Medicare beneficiaries say they don’t understand their coverage options well enough to make an informed decision. The good news? With the right guidance, you can avoid the most common pitfalls.

Here are seven mistakes seniors often make when enrolling in Medicare—and how to sidestep them.

1. Delaying Enrollment in Medicare Parts B or D

Many seniors assume they can wait until they “need” Medicare before signing up. Unfortunately, late enrollment can result in lifelong penalties.

• The Part B penalty: 10% added to your premium for every 12-month period you were eligible but didn’t sign up.
  
  

• The Part D penalty: 1% of the “national base beneficiary premium” for each month you delayed coverage.
  
  

How to avoid it: Unless you have qualifying employer coverage, enroll in Medicare as soon as you’re eligible at 65.

2. Overlooking Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare

Some people assume Medicare Advantage (Part C) is always “better” because it bundles services. Others think Original Medicare is the only “safe” choice. Both assumptions can lead to unexpected costs.

• Original Medicare: Broad provider choice but requires supplemental coverage (Medigap) for out-of-pocket costs.
  
  

• Medicare Advantage: Often includes extras like dental and vision but has restricted provider networks.
  
  

How to avoid it: Compare both options based on your current doctors, prescriptions, and budget—not just the monthly premium.

3. Not Reviewing Coverage Every Year

Healthcare needs and plan details change annually. In 2024 alone, CMS reported that over 50% of Advantage plans made changes to their prescription drug formularies.

How to avoid it: Take advantage of the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7) to review your coverage and compare plans.

4. Focusing Only on Premiums

Low monthly premiums don’t always equal lower overall costs. Seniors often overlook deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

How to avoid it: Calculate your total annual healthcare spend (including medications, specialists, and hospital stays). Choose the plan that minimizes your real out-of-pocket exposure.

5. Assuming All Doctors Accept Medicare

Not every provider takes Medicare—and even fewer may be in-network for Medicare Advantage.

How to avoid it: Always confirm that your primary care physician, specialists, and preferred hospitals are included in your plan’s network.

6. Skipping Prescription Drug Coverage

Even if you don’t take daily medications now, skipping Part D can be costly later—not just in penalties but in sudden, high prescription costs.

How to avoid it: Enroll in at least a basic Part D plan when you first become eligible. It’s cheaper to have coverage in place than to pay out-of-pocket for unexpected prescriptions.

7. Trying to Navigate Medicare Alone

Medicare is complicated. Relying solely on mailers or ads can result in gaps in coverage. Many seniors miss out on benefits simply because they don’t ask for professional help.

How to avoid it: Seek out a licensed Medicare advisor or resources like State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs). These are free, unbiased, and designed to help seniors make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Medicare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead, avoiding common mistakes, and reviewing your coverage regularly, you can protect both your health and your wallet.

Taking the time to understand your options now can prevent years of unnecessary costs later. As with all important decisions, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice—you don’t have to navigate Medicare alone.