Turning 65 in New Braunfels? Everything You Need to Know About Medicare in 2026
- cjgardnerbills
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
Let's get one thing straight: Medicare is not complicated — it just looks that way because nobody explains it properly. If you're approaching 65 in New Braunfels or anywhere in the Hill Country, this post is for you.
The Four Parts of Medicare — In Plain English
Medicare has four main parts, each covering something different:
Part A (Hospital Insurance) — Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and home health care.
Part B (Medical Insurance) — Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment like wheelchairs and walkers.
Part C (Medicare Advantage) — A bundled alternative offered by private insurers that typically includes Parts A, B, and usually Part D — often with extra dental, vision, and hearing benefits.
Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) — Covers prescription drugs. In 2026, your out-of-pocket drug costs are capped at $2,100. Hit that cap and you pay $0 for covered drugs for the rest of the year.
The Enrollment Window You Cannot Miss
Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window — 3 months before your birthday month through 3 months after. Miss it and you risk late enrollment penalties added to your monthly premium permanently. Turn 65 on June 2nd? Your window runs March through September.
Still on an employer plan? You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. But watch out — COBRA does NOT count as current employer coverage for this purpose. It is one of the most expensive mistakes we see.
Key Dates for 2026
Jan 1 – Mar 31: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment — existing MAPD members can switch plans or move back to Original Medicare.
Oct 15 – Dec 7: Annual Open Enrollment — join, switch, or drop any Medicare Advantage or Part D plan for 2027.
What Is the Right Choice for You?
There is no universal right answer. The right plan depends on your doctors, your prescriptions, your health situation, and your financial picture. That is why we offer free, no-pressure 1-on-1 consultations.
Whether you are in New Braunfels, San Antonio, or anywhere in the Hill Country — we are here to make Medicare simple. Book your free consultation at gardnermr.com.
