CJ Karrer
Writer · Reviewed by Richard ChanUpdated Jun 12, 2026
1 min read
Original Medicare does not have an annual out-of-pocket maximum, meaning beneficiaries are responsible for uncapped coinsurance costs.
Medicare generally does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care, requiring enrollees to find alternative coverage.
Part B coverage involves a standard monthly premium, which can increase based on your income through the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA).
Medicare is notoriously complex, weaving together private health options and multiple tiers of coverage that can leave even the savviest consumers feeling lost. Between deciphering Parts A, B, C, and D, weighing HMO versus PPO networks, evaluating prescription drug plans, and navigating confusing geographic restrictions, the learning curve is incredibly steep. Unfortunately, making a misstep in your healthcare selection can carry heavy financial and medical consequences—proving that what you don't know about Medicare truly can hurt you.