What's the most frustrating misconception you have to clear up with clients about Medicare every year?

Question

Kim Cotten · Accepted Answer

One of the most frustrating misconceptions I often have to clear up is the belief that Medicare is completely free and covers everything. Many clients are surprised to learn that Medicare has premiums, deductibles, copays, and that it doesn’t cover everything like dental, vision, hearing, or long-term care. Medicare plans are not a one size fits all and when i meet with my clients, i do a Client Needs Assessment to find the right plan for YOU.

Answered by Kim Cotten on May 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, CA & 12 other states

Answered by Kim Cotten Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Probably the most frustrating misconception Independent Brokers deal with each year with Medicare is that they have to re-enroll into their Medicare plan each year. The reality is that once you are on a plan, whether that is a Medicare Advantage Plan or a MediGap plan, the plan usually renews each Januay 1st unless you want to change.

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on June 3, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ & CA

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer Medicare Insurance Agent

Mike Alexander · Answer

That Medicare is free and it covers everything, medicare is an 80 % plan , a d you must find additional coverage to cover the 20%

Norman Smith · Answer

That Medicare Advantage is not Medicare.
You sign in for your original Parts A & B. You have to have both. But then you “sell off” both of those to get a Part C MA Plan. People do not understand the differences and what you give up at a time when there is No Underwriting. If you can afford the best, even while you’re feeling healthy, you risk the best and the highest quality healthcare in your future.

Larry Dalton · Answer

First, It’s essential to clearly understand the differences between Traditional Medicare with a Medigap plan vs Medicare Advantage. 

Second item is the mistakenly think that starting with a low-cost plan is the best option; however, this isn’t always the case with insurance companies under the Medigap program. After the first four to five years, premiums can increase significantly, making it difficult for those with health issues to switch to a more affordable plan.  Often, individuals are left at point in life with no choice but to transition to an Advantage plan a more affordable monthly rate and giving up their freedom of choice.   Being informed about these options can lead to better long-term decisions regarding healthcare coverage.

George Ibanez · Answer

The biggest misconception is to explain people why Medicare supplements are far better than Medicare Advantage plans due to misleading statements on TV commercials and making them understand that the reason that Medicare supplements are so much better is because they can go to any doctor or hospital and they don't have to worry about networks as they do with Medicare advantage plans, and they also do not have to deal with copays as they do with Medicare Advantage plans.
There is no such thing as free rides with Medicare plans, so when you are getting a $0 premium Medicare advantage plan, you will 100% pay copays for many important services, such as hospitalizations, MRI's, and other services, and with an advantage plan, you will also need referrals to go to most specialists, if not all of them.

For professional and honest 100% answers, contact George.

Lauren Fodde · Answer

One of the biggest misunderstandings I run into — year after year — is the idea that all Medicare plans are basically the same or that there’s somehow a “best” plan everyone should be on.

In reality, Medicare is not one-size-fits-all.

People hear advice from friends, neighbors, nurses, or even family members who mean well… but their situation (health needs, prescriptions, doctors, budget, travel habits, etc.) is completely different. What works beautifully for one person can be a terrible fit for someone else.

So the misconception I’m always clearing up is this:

“The plan that worked for someone else might not be the right plan for YOU.”

And that’s OK — because Medicare is designed to be customized.

What I do each year is help clients look at:

Their doctors and specialists
Their prescriptions
Their preferred hospitals
Their travel habits
Their budget and expected medical needs

Once we take their picture into account, the right plan becomes clear — and it’s often very different from the plan their neighbor swears by.

Listening to Medicare advice from someone who isn’t a licensed agent is like
asking your mechanic for a haircut — sure, they mean well, but you might not love the end result.

Steven Whetstine · Answer

The good thing is that I do a good job explaining to my clients how their insurance works and they know how to reach out to me if they are unsure about anything.  

On the other end, those that are not my clients!  Perhaps leads or those seeking truth and trying to get information from the general public.  There are several frustrating misconceptions out there even when I see Medicare Beneficiaries interact with one another on social media.  Knowing the difference between a Medicare Supplement Plan and a Medicare Advantage Plan is a big one!  There are many Medicare Beneficiaries who have Medicare Advantage Plans that say they have a Medicare Supplement plan and spread disinformation.  It makes me cringe when I read the posts on social media and people spread incorrect information.  Picking a plan is important and can have consequences if you choose the incorrect plan for you.  That is why it is important to seek guidance from a licensed and certified agent that can assist you.  

On that note, it is also important to know your agent and develop a relationship with them.  There are many businesses out there that have similar names, and it is important to verify which agent and business you are dealing with when choosing your Medicare options.  There are ways to verify if an agent and business is licensed within the state.  Personally, I have received complaints from individuals that are not my clients only to gather more information and identify the bad actors and have those agents and their entities become compliant with the state.  If a person has their own business, many times they have to have both an active individual and entity license.  It is important to do your homework.

Cody Biggs · Answer

Hands down, the most frustrating misconception I have to clear up every single year is this:

“If I do nothing, my Medicare plan just stays the same.”

Technically, yes—you’ll stay enrolled. But the plan itself almost never stays the same.

Every year carriers can (and do) change:
	•	premiums
	•	deductibles
	•	copays and coinsurance
	•	drug formularies
	•	provider networks

So people assume they’re “all set,” then January hits and suddenly their doctor is out of network, their prescription moved tiers, or their out-of-pocket costs jumped.

I tell clients this all the time: Medicare doesn’t require you to review your plan annually—but your wallet absolutely should. Even a 10-minute review during Annual Enrollment can save a lot of money and frustration later.

Michael Andrews · Answer

The most frustrating misconception that I have to clear up is that people think they can only change their Medicare supplement plan during the Annual Election Period (AEP).

Answered by Chad Watkins on May 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in NJ, AK, AL & 48 other states

Answered by Chad Watkins Medicare Insurance Agent

For example, if you're gonna continue to work and say you have an HSA, your best bet is to not take Medicare at all. However, if you're gonna continue to work and it's just you and the insurance, you know, low cost and it fills your needs, you might want to take Part A and hold off on Part B, because Part A is normally free. Once you get your Medicare number generated, it's a little easier to get Part B active when the time does come.

The biggest thing for getting Part B active later on down the road is that there are a few extra steps involving Social Security and the HR department of your company to fill out some forms that’ll allow you to avoid those late penalties.

So the biggest advice that I can give is just know your enrollment windows, reach out to somebody, talk to somebody, get a conversation or a Medicare game plan in place. I always recommend about six months out is usually a sweet spot to start having that conversation. And for those that are planners, maybe even up to a year. I hope this helps.

Daniel Maisel · Answer

The most frustrating misconception about certain Medicare plans are the urban legends that are marketed by some Medicare health plans. 
What are those misconceptions? 

1) They receive all benefits in California, on those plans,  for FREE.

2) All doctors on those plans are located in one single location. 

If it may happen that all specialists they need work at one facility that would be true, but usually the patient must go to various facilities. 

3) All prescriptions are available at one facility. 

If they have their prescription available at the facility they happen to be at on the that day, then that is true.  If not, then they would then be required to travel to another location. 

In Southern California those in that popular plan,often may have to travel as much as a 50 mile radius.

When you are health that is not usually much of an issue. 

But it is important that plan selections should be made in the event they are ill.

Eddie Tune · Answer

Most seniors have questions that pertains to their specific issues or needs , so the nothing is frustrating . I try to answer and be patient with all my customers and answer all questions to the best of my ability.

Answered by Eddie Tune on July 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Eddie Tune Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael White · Answer

That Medicare doesn’t cover all charges and procedures and that there is a monthly charge for your Part B.

Jamie Goble · Answer

Good question. That it isn’t good insurance. That medicare is going to end .That Medicare Advantage plans are no good. 
That everyone one is eligible for the same thing.
Example would be- Just because your friend gets the food benefits with her plan - doesn’t mean you can get it to.
In order to get some off those benefits you have to have Medicaid with your medicare.

Ali Crouch · Answer

The TV advertises free money for groceries, utilities, etc. This is for seniors on Medicaid and Medicare. These ads should specify this or tailor the commercials to the areas they are in. In Nebraska and Iowa, these plans are for Medicaid and Medicare recipients.

Answered by Ali Crouch on May 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in NE, AZ, CO & 11 other states

Answered by Ali Crouch Medicare Insurance Agent

Nathan Danovski · Answer

One of the most frustrating misconceptions I have to clear up with clients every year is many seniors believe their $0 premium medicare advantage plan is the same as a Medicare Supplement, but in reality it is two very different types of coverage. I believe the confusion happens because they hear $0 premium and assume their getting full comprehensive coverage like a Medicare Supplement plan. It is very crucial to beneficiaries to understand the difference so they are not surprised by bills or maybe coverage details, and truly understand their coverage options.

Answered by Cole Amador on June 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA

Answered by Cole Amador Medicare Insurance Agent

Melanie Baxter Black · Answer

The most frustrating misconception that I have to clear up with clients about Medicare every year is that ALL Medicare Advantage plans are bad. This could not be further from the truth. If you have a Medicare Agent worth his weight in salt, the Agent will educate you about all of your options i.e. Medicare Supplements with a Part D plan -AND- Medicare Advantage plans, and explain to you the advantages and disadvantages of each and how it applies to your specific situation.

Answered by Melanie Baxter Black on April 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Melanie Baxter Black Medicare Insurance Agent

Scott Sims · Answer

With so many plan changes this past year, many people who just let their plan roll into next year have been surprised by benefit changes. I make it clear when I sit down with clients and help them, let's make sure we have a chat or meeting when you get my postcard in the mail in September. These plans can change every year, it's important to review! Drug deductibles have changed this year for many plans, big deal!

Answered by Scott Sims on April 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 15 other states

Answered by Scott Sims Medicare Insurance Agent

Cole Amador · Answer

One of the most frustrating misconceptions I often have to clear up is the belief that Medicare is completely free and covers everything. Many clients are surprised to learn that Medicare has premiums, deductibles, copays, and that it doesn’t cover everything like dental, vision, hearing, or long-term care. Medicare plans are not a one size fits all and when i meet with my clients, i do a Client Needs Assessment to find the right plan for YOU.

Answered by Kim Cotten on May 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, CA & 12 other states

Diana Garner · Answer

The most frustrating misconception I have to clear up most of the time is that Medicare Advantage plans are horrible.

They are not horrible, they are just not explained properly by many agents who sell them, which leads to unhappy Medicare beneficiaries.

Medicare Advantage plans are good for people who are lower income and can't afford to pay monthly premiums for Medicare Supplements and Standalone Prescription Drug Plans.  If you do not go to the doctor often, your out-of-pocket expenses are less, however, we never know when something will happen or when we will become ill. There are ancillary products available with lower premiums that can help combat the copays for inpatient hospital stays, ambulance service copays, outpatient hospital surgeries, and more.

Medicare Advantage plans are also good for older beneficiaries who have reached the point where they are paying $300 - $400 per month for premiums on a med sup.  At that point, the max out-of-pocket on a Medicare Advantage plan is less than the monthly premiums they would be paying for a med sup.

Jim Tretola · Answer

Many do not truly understand their deductibles and out of pocket costs they will be responsible for.

Leslie Kaz · Answer

“Medicare is free and covers everything.”

No. No it does not.
And yes, we get to explain that… again… every… single… AEP.

Frank Carta · Answer

Some clients require a clearer picture of the costs associated Medicare and how they can
manage them. Some struggle to understand and I get that. It is ok. When you talk to an agent/broker you may benefit by bringing along a trusted companion who has your best interests at hand because a good friend knows you and may be able to help you understand better. If you still do not understand, you should probably have a legally appointed guardian for your medical decisions.

Chad Watkins · Answer

The most frustrating misconception that I have to clear up is that people think they can only change their Medicare supplement plan during the Annual Election Period (AEP).

Cleo Martin · Answer

That they don't to check their benefits each year. If you have a separate drug card it should be checked when new benefit books come in each year. Same with a Medicare Advantage.

Erlynne (Elle) Massie · Answer

This is a great question! There are a few misconceptions that I have encountered in my career both as a top performing captive agent at one of the largest Medicare carriers in the country, as well as now as an independent broker licensed in all 50 states + DC. 

Here are a few common ones, for example:

1. Medicare is "free." - No it is not. Part A coverage is generally premium-free for people who have worked and paid taxes for at least 40 quarters (10 years) in their lifetime, or whose spouse has done so. Part B has a premium, and it is set by CMS yearly. In 2025, it is $185 per month. That premium is the beneficiary's responsibility unless their state's Medicaid organization is paying the premium on their behalf due to income-qualification.

2. Medicare covers "everything." No, it does not. Original Medicare (Medicare parts A&B only) does not cover prescription drugs, vaccinations, dental, vision, hearing or the cost of custodial care or long term care. That is why supplemental coverage exists - to cover the gaps left where traditional Medicare leaves off.

3. Medicare prescription drug coverage is optional for people who don't take medications - Incorrect. Creditable Part D (prescription drug) coverage is required by Medicare, either through an employer, Veterans Administration/Tricare, or a Part D plan through a Part D insurance company (PDP or MAPD) is required. If someone goes without creditable coverage while on Medicare, they are penalized for each month they go uncovered for the rest of their lives if they enroll into Part D coverage in their future. Penalties apply for delayed enrollment into all parts of Medicare without other creditable coverage, but the Part D coverage is the most commonly overlooked. 

Medicare is complex and complicated, and it's important to navigate it with a thorough, compliant, certified advisor and advocate who can align with your unique, individual needs, so you can cut through the noise to make informed decisions.

Brianna Douros · Answer

Hey y'all, it's Brianna, your favorite life and health insurance agent and earner. If you’re uninsured, bring in your resolutions, and let's discuss three common mistakes that I find people make during the annual enrollment period.

Number one is waiting until the last minute. When you wait, you don't have time to fully understand all of your options. You can end up scrambling and even get locked into something that really isn't benefiting you. So don't wait until the last minute.

Number two is assuming that your plan doesn't change. Every year, companies adjust premiums, networks, and benefits. If you don't review the changes, you could miss something important that impacts your coverage.

Number three is not checking your drug coverage. Formularies change every year, and medications can even move tiers. If you're not reviewing, you could end up paying a lot more for the same prescriptions you're currently taking.

The good news is I can help you avoid all of these mistakes at no cost to you. So don't wait. Give me a call or grab a spot on my calendar using the link below. Let's make this AP stress-free.

All right y'all, until next time, keep it real.

Evan Agona · Answer

That if you change plans you have to change your doctors. On the contrary when shopping for plan options we are able to using comparison tools to find plans that will allow beneficiaries to maintain their current doctors and hospitals. Many times a beneficiaries current doctors and hospitals are considered to be in-network with multiple carriers, however, a new carrier may provide additional items that better align with their needs.

Answered by Evan Agona on November 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, FL, KY & 6 other states

Answered by Evan Agona Medicare Insurance Agent

Eduardo Camacho · Answer

The most frustrating thing that I have run across is when people who turn 65 and believe that enrolling in a Part D prescription drug plan is optional and that there will be consequences if they don't

Katheryn Evans · Answer

Sometimes clients do not realize that they must pay the Part B premium.  There are certain circumstances (based on income) where the Part B premium is waived but most people do need to pay it.

Bill Zeky · Answer

The biggest misconception I encounter has to do with Medicare advantage plans. People often rely on the advice they receive from friends and family which usually isn't correct.

Niels Heemskerk · Answer

A lot of my clients that are just about turning 65 believe that Part B is an automatic. They will call a week before they are qualify for Medicare and think all is set. My recommendation is that three months before their effective day they should get Part B set up.

Answered by Niels Heemskerk on December 15, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL, MI, OH, PA, TX & WI

Answered by Niels Heemskerk Medicare Insurance Agent

Maureen McKenna · Answer

What is the difference between a Physical and a Wellness difference and which is covered by Medicare if any.

Mary Gicker · Answer

The most common frustrating misconception that clients have about Medicare revolves around the penalties that can be imposed based on enrolling in Medicare A and B. How Medicare works with employee coverage and that enrolling in Medicare and keeping employer coverage is a good direction to take.

Answered by Mary Gicker on March 30, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, GA & 5 other states

Answered by Mary Gicker Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

That medicare supplement plans must be "In network" dr's hospitals etc. They don't. If the medical facility/dr takes original medicare they MUST take your medicare supplement plan. As al are approved by medicare and pay the 20% that medicare does not cover. 
People are used to how insurance companies work traditionally, thats how medicare advantage plans work. Not so with supplement plans.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

There are 2 major misconceptions that my clients fall prey to: #1 are scam calls claiming there are updates to their Medicare plans. Of course nothing can change mid-year. #2 scam calls claiming they qualify for a food card. That's only possible when a client has both Medicare and Medicaid, which is rare, since the qualifying income and assets are very low. In both cases of #'s 1 and 2, the real purpose of the caller is to convince the client to change to another plan, so that agent can get commission. What client's don't even realize is the fact that the call itself is 100% illegal to begin with! So why would a client want to have an agent who conducts business illegally?!

Answered by Andrew Kramer on July 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Marcie Barnes · Answer

The plan that is right for someone else may not be right for you.  A extensive needs assessment is the best way to determine what will be in your best interests.

Karen Ansell · Answer

That Medicare will cover the full amount of their bill and that all insurance companies are the same.

Sam Silva · Answer

Delaying enrollment can lead to lifelong penalties, and that’s often something they don’t find out until it’s too late.
It takes time to help clients understand that planning ahead is essential to avoid unexpected expenses.
They often assume that once they turn 65, all their healthcare costs disappear, which unfortunately is not the case.

Jim Willis · Answer

Medicare Supplements pay everything and no cost.
Medicare has to pay a portion before the Supplement will kick in. The Supplement has copays and deductibles and must abide by Medicare. If Medicare does not pay for the test or procedure, neither does the Supplement.

Supplements can go up every year and the total cost of Supplements, including premiums, can be more than $5000 per year.  The Maximum Out Of Pocket for most Medicare Advantage plans is much lower.

Lillian Hill · Answer

A little background information that ties into this question—before I became a licensed insurance agent, I worked as a third‑party debt collector on unpaid medical bills. I heard the same line again and again: “My insurance is responsible for that bill.” 😱

Today, the wording has changed, but the frustration remains:

“I have Medicare. Why am I being billed?”

Many people assume that once they enroll in a health plan—whether over 65 or under 65—their costs should end. I understand why it feels that way, but most health plans, including Medicare, will have out‑of‑pocket costs.

Here’s the simple truth:  
Medicare is not full coverage.
It typically pays up to 80% of medically necessary services.

So, beneficiaries may still face deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and costs for services Medicare doesn’t cover, such as dental, vision, and hearing.

After a major “tsunami” moment concurred in my personal life, I shifted careers—and I now see how necessary both paths were. My work in medical debt collections showed me how often people struggled to understand their coverage and financial responsibilities. That experience prepared me for the work I do today, helping individuals navigate their benefits and build long‑term security while easing some of the frustrations that comes from trying to understand a system that can be complex.

🎯

David Christian · Answer

That Medicare Advantage Plans are not as good as Med Supp plans. Neither option is for everyone, but I see a lot of people getting supplement plans that don't need to pay the higher premium costs (supplement + PDP plan) because they have heard the nightmares propaganda that some really popular sites have been saying for years. Each individual needs to evalutate the costs and coverages and don't just get a supplement because, "they costs more, so they are better".

Answered by David Christian on April 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA & TX

Answered by David Christian Medicare Insurance Agent

John L Herman Jr · Answer

Truthfully it is getting past the bombardment of calls and mail they get from the Insurance companies that confuse the client... not educate the client.  Having people endlessly call... spout on TV... and slam them with mail harms them rather than helps them.

Callers assuring people that THEY have the best Plan even when someone else has a better Plan...  this is ridiculous.

William Murray · Answer

The most frustrating misconception I have to clear up with clients year after year is that they think they can continue to keep their Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) without reviewing if their drugs are still covered in the formulary, that their pharmacies are still "Preferrred/ In-Network" that their specific drug, dosage and frequency taken haven't changed and/or caused their plan to no longer be the least expensive plan for their specific menu of drugs and pharmacies used.

Answered by William Murray on December 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 31 other states

Answered by William Murray Medicare Insurance Agent

Patricia Graham · Answer

That they don't need to review their coverage just because they were happy with it last year.  Especially when it comes to prescription coverage.

Ray Rios · Answer

Why Medicare charges penalties and how to avoid making the mistake of not enrolling on time.  Penalties are real. Having a local broker helps minimize the effects.

Lyle Affleck · Answer

The most frustrating misconception about Medicare I deal with ALL the time is that "Medicare Advantage Plans are the only plans available" on the market. The truth is that Medicare Advantage plans are just getting the most advertising attention. There are reasons for that, and hopefully your Medicare insurance specialist will walk you through those reasons with honest explanations. We work to ensure that our clients are thoroughly educated.

Answered by Lyle Affleck on September 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in UT, CO, FL & 8 other states

Answered by Lyle Affleck Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Tretola · Answer

That Medicare covers everything once you turn 65. People have paid into the system for decades and assume they're getting full coverage, then they're shocked when they find out about the 20% coinsurance on Part B with no cap, the gaps in dental, vision, and hearing, and especially that long-term care isn't covered at all. I spend a lot of time explaining that Medicare is a foundation, not a complete solution, and that without a Medigap policy or a good Advantage plan, you can still end up with serious out of pocket costs. The other big one is people thinking they can just sign up whenever they want without consequences, then learning about lifetime penalties the hard way. A lot of frustration comes from expectations that don't match reality, and that's really a failure of how Medicare is communicated to people before they become eligible.

Answered by Joseph Tretola on February 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 26 other states

Answered by Joseph Tretola Medicare Insurance Agent

Judi Norton · Answer

That once you are on a Medicare Advantage plan, every will remain the same from year to year. Also, that Medicare Advantage Plans should cover more and all doctors should take the plan if the Hospital or the Clinic takes the plan.

Answered by Judi Norton on April 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in NM

Answered by Judi Norton Medicare Insurance Agent

Emmond Wills · Answer

That its free and covers everything when its not always the case and that it doesn't cover everything. That’s why working with a licensed agent is so important — we help clients understand their real costs and find plans that fit their health and budget instead of assuming “free” means “full coverage.”

Answered by Emmond Wills on October 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AZ, FL & 6 other states

Answered by Emmond Wills Medicare Insurance Agent

Douglas Carney · Answer

The most frustrating misconception I have to clear up with clients about Medicare every year was the Doughnut Hole (if you know, you know). Now it's how the insurance carriers can afford to offer zero-dollar monthly plans.

Answered by Douglas Carney on May 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NC, OK & TX

Answered by Douglas Carney Medicare Insurance Agent

Robert Rowe · Answer

Your OTC card isn’t for junk food it is For healthy food intended to be preventative health care spending. Your transportation benefits are for rides to your doctor appointments not to go on dates or run errands. Those are the 2 biggest ones.

Answered by Robert Rowe on May 13, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI

Answered by Robert Rowe Medicare Insurance Agent

Jamie Herrick · Answer

Claim denial. I have not had any of my clients have any denials thus far. There is misinformation on tv. However it could be real for those under 65. But none of my clients have had denials.

LaShonda Smith · Answer

I dont have any misconsceptions. It is all about what is valueable to the member sometimes they cannot always see that but its ok

Scott Klag · Answer

The most important misconception that clients have is that their plan will stay the same year over year. They don't think they need to review their plan on a yearly basis. Annual reviews during the AEP October 1 thru December 7 ARE ESSENTIAL!

Answered by Scott Klag on April 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in OH

Answered by Scott Klag Medicare Insurance Agent

Anniessa Anderson · Answer

So many people think once they get Medicare, they’re set for life and never need to look at their plan again. But plans change every year, and what worked last year might not fit your doctors or prescriptions this year.

Answered by Anniessa Anderson on October 30, 2025

Agent Licensed in GA, FL, IA & MI, NC, OH & WV

Answered by Anniessa Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Kyra Baldwin · Answer

That whether they choose a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Supplement, they will have to continue paying their Part B premium.

Lesley Burns · Answer

As an agent, the most frustrating misconception is helping clients/potential client understand that I am not Medicare. I am a licensed professional working to answer all your questions and get them the best plan possible/available within the client service area.

Answered by Lesley Burns on April 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in AR, MI, MO, NM & TX

Answered by Lesley Burns Medicare Insurance Agent

Nydia Flores · Answer

The most frustrating misconception is that Medicare covers all health insurance cost. 
This is not true, Medicare covers 80% of all medical cost, the customer is responsible for the other 20% of all medical cost, including co-pays.  The customers that purchase supplemental insurance like AARP or Medigap health insurance have more health coverage than those that do not purchase supplemental insurance.  The Medicare insurance covers 80% and the supplemental insurance (AARP/Medigap) covers the other 20%.  Having both health insurances Medicare & a supplemental insurance means that the customer is covered 100%.

Veronique Kasbarian · Answer

They do have the right to review their coverage every year at least with out having to change their doctors. As we get older our needs and health do change , thats why its important to review.

Michele Spencer · Answer

Medigap plans can be reviewed and changed anytime of the year. People think they can only be changed during the annual election period. They are regulated by your state department of insurance and not Medicare

Answered by Michele Spencer on January 12, 2026

Agent Licensed in IN, KY & OH

Answered by Michele Spencer Medicare Insurance Agent

David Nelson · Answer

Original Medicare covers everything. Although Original Medicare is good coverage there are many holes or gaps. It's important to cover or limit your financial exposure and protect your retirement assets , as original Medicare has no Maximum Out of Pocket expense.

Answered by David Nelson on March 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in IL

Answered by David Nelson Medicare Insurance Agent

Jennifer Stark · Answer

That the deductible for certain drugs starts over Jan 1. They think they need to renew every year, and they get reallly nervous. I am always happy to explain how it works.

Ceranes Lejulus · Answer

Hmmm, let's see.... I think the most misconception clients have is that they think Medicare covers everything. I regularly have to educate that the Medicare was never designed to pay for everything. It's my job to try to minimize those out-of-pocket costs as much as possible.

Answered by Ceranes Lejulus on April 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 21 other states

Answered by Ceranes Lejulus Medicare Insurance Agent

Rhys Kern · Answer

Every year people see the commercials and think October lets them change anything they want. It’s more like swapping cereal brands, not remodeling the kitchen. We can change Advantage and Part D in the fall, but Medigap’s easy signup only happens once when Part B begins. While we’re at it, “my doctor takes Medicare” doesn’t mean they take every Advantage plan, and a $0 premium doesn’t mean $0 costs

Answered by Rhys Kern on October 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in NC & VA

Answered by Rhys Kern Medicare Insurance Agent

Sonya Fortner · Answer

The most frustrating misconception that I have to clear up is that people think they can only change their Medicare supplement plan during the Annual Election Period (AEP).

Answered by Chad Watkins on May 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in NJ, AK, AL & 48 other states

Christian Baird · Answer

The difference of Medicare supplement programs vs. Medicare Advantage. I do not offer Medicare Advantage plans because I do not believe in them.

Patti Bagley · Answer

The most frequent question I get asked is about the extra grocery benefits that people see advertised. I feel that this is misleading because in order to qualify for these benefits you most likely also need to qualify for Medicaid or have a qualifying chronic illness.

Answered by Patti Bagley on April 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA & WV

Answered by Patti Bagley Medicare Insurance Agent

Wes Drew · Answer

The most frustrating misconception is explaining that Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans are entirely different ways of looking at coverage. It isn't that one is better than the other, both plans are intended to serve the needs of beneficiaries while approaching those needs from different perspectives. There isn't a one-sized fits all plan for all Medicare beneficiaries and understanding your needs and expectations will help you determine which plan type is the right fit for you.

Answered by Wes Drew on April 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL

Answered by Wes Drew Medicare Insurance Agent

Bernadette Baugh · Answer

The most frustrating misconception is people think there's a cost to work with a local agent. Local agents are familiar with the networks and plans in your area. They're a fantastic resource to have. Each agent spends hundreds of hours a year researching plans, learning about new changes in the industry, and ultimately they want to help the members of his/her community. Building a relationship with your local agent will help eliminate a lot of frustrations that can come along with Medicare.

Answered by Bernadette Baugh on April 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in IN & FL

Answered by Bernadette Baugh Medicare Insurance Agent

Brandy Lee · Answer

The most frustrating misconception about Medicare is the Part B premiums, and the deductibles and coinsurances beneficiaries are responsible for.  Then…these costs can increase each year.

Lachea Harris · Answer

People always think Medicare pays for everything, but it doesn't. They're shocked when they find out about all the stuff it skips, like dental and vision, and that it isn't free.

What's the most frustrating misconception you have to clear up with clients about Medicare every year?

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What's the most frustrating misconception you have to clear up with clients about Medicare every year?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website