{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/69c148bb1a160b44db9c8fcc/6a90e244d3e4bd904187b27e?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Medicare 101: How to avoid pricey mistakes and choose the right plan","description":"<p>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.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul><li>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).</li><li>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.</li><li>Original Medicare doesn't cover long-term care such as assisted living or nursing home stays, or routine dental, vision, and hearing care.</li><li>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.</li><li>Missing your Initial Enrollment Period triggers lifetime penalties unless you have active, creditable employer health coverage.&nbsp;</li><li>Enrollment isn't automatic unless you already receive Social Security benefits when you turn 65.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Discover more from Money Girl!</strong></p><p><a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Facebook</a></p><p><a href=\"https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-girl-newsletter/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Newsletter</a></p><p>Transcripts available at <a href=\"https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/transcripts/money-girl/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">QuickandDirtyTips.com</a>.</p><p>Email: Laura@LauraDAdams.com or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308.</p>","author_name":"QuickAndDirtyTips.com"}