Includes glossary

Part 1: The basics -- Medicare mistake #1: assuming that Medicare is free -- Medicare mistake #2: expecting Medicare to cover 100% of your healthcare costs -- Part II: Major decision: when is your best time to enroll -- Medicare mistake #3: missing your initial enrollment period (IEP) -- Part II: Major decision: will you need prescription drug coverage? -- Medicare mistake #4: skipping part D without having other coverage -- Medicare mistake #5: failing to keep and submit proof of your creditable coverage -- Part IV: Major decision: which route should you choose to go with Medicare? -- Medicare mistake #6: assuming preexisting conditions don't matter -- Medicare mistake #7: canceling part B because you joined a Medicare advantage plan -- Medicare mistake #8: the big mistake -- Part V: Major decisions: which insurance plan should you select? Should you stick with it? -- Medicare mistake #9: asking your doctor's office the wrong questions (or not asking at all) -- Medicare mistake #10: annual decisions -failing to review your coverage -- Summing up -- Next steps

New beneficiaries are often overwhelmed by Medicare information and fearful of making big mistakes. There are too many parts, too many choices. This book will help prevent them and keep your money where it belongs. With practical tips and real-life examples of what not to do, this book will help you steer clear of devastating mistakes that can affect you forever