How to Avoid the 5 Most Common Medicare Enrollment Mistakes in Pennsylvania

Medicare can be confusing, especially when you’re turning 65 and enrolling for the first time. One small mistake can lead to higher premiums, missed benefits, or even penalties that last for life. If you live in Pennsylvania, here are the five most common Medicare enrollment mistakes — and how you can avoid them.

1. Missing Your Initial Enrollment Period

Many seniors don’t realize that Medicare doesn’t start automatically unless you’re already receiving Social Security benefits. You have a seven-month window to enroll — starting three months before your 65th birthday, including your birthday month, and ending three months after. If you miss this period, you could face permanent late enrollment penalties and delayed coverage.

2. Not Comparing Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare

Some people assume Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is their only option, but that’s not true.Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offered in Pennsylvania often include valuable extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits — things Original Medicare doesn’t cover.

3. Ignoring Prescription Drug Coverage

Even if you don’t take any medications now, skipping Part D (prescription drug coverage) is a costly mistake. If you enroll late, Medicare charges a lifetime penalty added to your premium each month once you do need coverage.

4. Assuming Medicare Covers Long-Term Care

One of the biggest misunderstandings about Medicare is that it covers long-term care. It doesn’t. Medicare only covers short-term skilled nursing or rehabilitation after a qualifying hospital stay — not ongoing help with bathing, dressing, or other daily needs.

5. Not Reviewing Your Plan Each Year

Medicare plans and drug lists change every year — premiums, provider networks, and benefits can all shift. If you don’t review your plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), you could lose access to your preferred doctors or end up paying more than necessary.