Thinking About Health: Be wary of the complex pros and cons of Medicare plans

Along with crunchy leaves and pumpkins, fall brings a slew of advertising for insurance plans that fill the gaps in Medicare coverage.

Misleading and confusing messages continue to reach beneficiaries and those nearing Medicare age. To take myself as an example, I’ve received an invitation to a Medicare Advantage plan informational meeting. I’ve gotten a solicitation from my physicians’ medical group offering a “zero-cost, no obligation way to review coverage” online or over the phone. The “review” is likely to bring a sales pitch for a plan.

A mailer from another plan offered “a friendly, mon...