5 Common Medicare Mistakes to Avoid When Turning 65
Ken Parson
Turning 65 is an exciting milestone — but it also comes with important decisions about your healthcare. Medicare can be confusing at first, and even small mistakes can lead to higher costs or gaps in coverage. If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility in North Carolina, here are five common missteps to watch for — and how to avoid them.
1. Missing Your Medicare Enrollment Window
Your Initial Enrollment Period starts three months before your 65th birthday and lasts for seven months total. Waiting too long to enroll can lead to penalties or delayed coverage. Even if you’re still working, it’s worth checking with your employer or an advisor to confirm whether you need to sign up for Medicare Part A or B now or later.
2. Assuming Medicare Covers Everything
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) doesn’t include routine dental, vision, hearing, or prescription drug coverage. Many new enrollees are surprised by these out-of-pocket expenses. This is where Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Part D prescription drug plans come in — each designed to fill the gaps that Original Medicare leaves behind.
3. Choosing a Plan Without Checking Your Doctors or Prescriptions
Not all plans cover the same providers or medications. Before enrolling, make sure your preferred doctors are in-network and your prescriptions are covered at a reasonable cost. A quick review with a licensed Medicare advisor can prevent expensive surprises later.
4. Ignoring Annual Plan Reviews
Your healthcare needs — and plan details — can change each year. Premiums, copays, and prescription coverage may shift from one year to the next. Reviewing your plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7) ensures you’re always getting the best fit and value for your situation.
5. Not Asking for Professional Guidance
Medicare rules and plan options can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle them alone. A licensed advisor can explain your choices in plain language, compare plans side by side, and handle enrollment at no cost to you.
Avoid the Confusion — Get the Right Medicare Guidance
At Triangle Health Solutions, we help North Carolina seniors understand Medicare with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re in Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, or anywhere across the state, our family team will walk you through each step so you can make informed decisions.
Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation Medicare review and make sure you start your coverage the right way.
