Blog

There are a large number of well-intended individuals who seem to think they know everything about everything; in fact, you may even know someone who fits the bill. However, when it comes to Medicare, the initial choices you make are extremely important to your future healthcare, and it would be a shame to rely on hearsay or Myths that are not true.

Navigating the world of Medicare can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when the costs change each year. Understanding these adjustments is essential for budgeting and The official 2026 numbers have been released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). We are here to walk you through these new costs, explain what they mean for you, and show you how to manage them effectively.

Thankfully, there are not nearly as many new concerns as last fall, but I think it's still good to share the information.  The most significant nationwide trend is that healthcare costs continue to rise rather than level off. We have seen that MOOP amounts continue to increase, along with Medicare Advantage, Part B Premiums, Part B Deductibles, Medicare Supplement Premiums, and Medicare Part D Deductibles.

ORIGINAL MEDICARE DOES NOT COVER ROUTINE DENTAL Almost everyone understands that Original or Traditional Medicare does not offer coverage for routine Dental, Vision, or hearing. This means that seniors who prefer the Quality and Choice that comes with Original Medicare, especially when coupled with a Medicare Supplement/Medigap policy, are usually forced to look for Dental and/or Vision insurance on their own.

DOES MEDICARE PROVIDE FOR ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES? No, Assisted living facilities are often referred to as Long Term Care Facilities. These facilities serve individuals requiring non-medical custodial care and assist with daily activities they cannot perform on their own. These ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) include Dressing, Bathing, Medication Management, getting in and out of a Chair or a Bed, Walking Independently, going to the Restroom, and eating.