Insights & Updates
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Featured Article:
3 Mistakes People Make When Picking a Medicare Plan
Choosing the right medicare plan can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people make common mistakes that can lead to higher costs or gaps in coverage.
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Articles:
3 Mistakes People Make When Picking a Medicare Plan
Choosing the right Medicare plan can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people make common mistakes that can lead to higher costs or gaps in coverage. Here are three to avoid:
1. Not Reviewing Plans Every Year
Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans change annually. Premiums, Copays, drug formularies, and provider networks can shift, leaving you with unexpected costs if you don’t review.
👉 Tip: During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7), always check your plan against your current needs.
2. Assuming Original Medicare Covers Everything
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) leaves out prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, and has no cap on out-of-pocket expenses. Many people don’t realize until it’s too late.
👉 Tip: Consider adding a Medicare Supplement, Advantage plan, or stand-alone drug coverage to protect yourself.
3. Choosing the Lowest Premium Without Looking at Total Costs
A $0 premium Advantage plan can sound great, but if it has higher deductibles or copays for your prescriptions, it may cost more in the long run.
👉 Tip: Balance monthly premium against your likely annual costs — including medications and specialist visits.
✅ The Bottom Line: Take time to compare options carefully. A licensed agent can help you understand which plan is the best fit for your health and budget.
How to Use Your Over-the-Counter (OTC) Benefits
Many Medicare Advantage plans now offer an OTC allowance — money you can use to buy health-related items at no extra cost. But many beneficiaries don’t take full advantage of this benefit. Here’s how to make the most of it:
What You Can Buy
Pain relievers and cold medicines
First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics)
Health products like vitamins and supplements
Personal care items (dental care, incontinence supplies, etc.)
How to Access Your Benefit
Check your plan’s OTC catalog — each plan has an approved list.
Order online, by phone, or in-store (depending on your carrier).
Track your balance — most plans reload your allowance monthly or quarterly.
Why It Matters
OTC benefits can save you $200–$500 or more each year. Unused benefits usually don’t roll over, so make sure you use them before they expire.
✅ Tip: Keep a running list of household items you need (like toothpaste or allergy meds) so you can stock up when your allowance reloads.
Compliance Disclaimer
The information provided in these articles and updates is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation for any specific plan or product. Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, Prescription Drug, and Final Expense policies are offered by private insurance companies and may vary by state, carrier, and individual eligibility. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or any government agency. Please consult with a licensed insurance agent or review official resources before making enrollment decisions.
© AdviseCare Insurance 2025 All Rights Reserved. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.