Seniors on a Medicare Advantage plan through Providence Health Plan might be forced to find new coverage in 2027 now that a deal to keep the plan active has failed. This news comes just six weeks before open enrollment for 2027 begins and is expected to impact more than 64,000 Americans. Below we share what exactly happened to Providence Health Plan and reveal what seniors who have Medicare Advantage plans need to know before open enrollment begins. 

Healthcare

Medicare Advantage Benefits Could Be Cut in 2027—What to Know

Millions of people choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan because of the extra benefits included, like gym memberships, vision and dental coverage and more. But according to Reuters, Humana—one of the largest Medicare Advantage insurers—might cut those benefits if the federal government’s new payment rate for insurance companies is approved. Below, we share […]

What is Providence Health Plan?

Providence Health Plan is a Washington-based insurance company that provides health insurance plans to about 440,000 people in several Western states. They have been in business for more than 40 years and are now closing after they failed to sell their Medicare Advantage—also known as Medicare Part C—plans to a national buyer. 

“Despite significant effort on all sides, we were unable to reach an agreement on a sale,” a Providence spokesperson told Healthcare Finance News. “We are in discussion with regulators about this development and the broader wind-down of Providence’s health plan operations. We will share more details with our members and the public as we are able under applicable regulations.” 

The closing of Providence will affect seniors enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and families and individuals who enrolled in the company’s healthcare plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, which was created by former president Barack Obama in March 2010 and has undergone many cuts over the past couple of years. 

“Providence is another on a growing list of carriers looking to opt out of the ACA marketplace as well as Medicare Advantage as reimbursements decline and costs continue to increase,” Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, explained to Newsweek.

Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin added to that, telling the outlet that this closure was “just the latest in a series of exits from companies that had previously offered Medicare Advantage plans and are now moving out of the space.” 

“Providence is dealing with the same financial pressures other insurers in the space have, as rising costs have made these plans unsustainable in remaining profitable for the long term,” he continued. “The reality is effects from this profitability pinch could be felt by many more if other insurers continue to revise or drop plans.” 

Healthcare

Medicare Advantage versus Medigap: Which One Saves You More in 2026?

We’re less than two weeks away from the end of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which means seniors on Medicare Advantage plans don’t have much time to decide if they want to change their coverage or return to Original Medicare. They also have to decide if they want to enroll in a Medigap plan […]

How the closing of Providence Health Plan will impact seniors 

For the 64,000 seniors enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan through Providence Health Plan, there is good news and bad news. The good news is that they will be covered through the rest of 2026. The bad news is that their health insurance coverage will end on January 1, 2027, so they’ll be forced to find a new health insurance provider during open enrollment this fall. 

During that time, seniors will have the chance to renew, change or add coverage to their Medicare plan, which will guarantee them coverage throughout the year. Open enrollment goes from Thursday, October 15, 2026 to Monday, December 7, 2026 and you can learn more about how to navigate it here!

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Costco recently announced that they will be selling a select number of Medicare plans. Yes, you read that right: The big-box store will be selling Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C and Medicare Supplement, also known as Medigap, plans to seniors soon. This announcement comes after Costco’s heavy push to sell health-related items, including hearing aids, glasses, contacts and GLP-1s and other prescription medications. To learn more about this announcement, including how to know if you qualify for Medicare at Costco, keep scrolling!

What to know about Medicare at Costco

Earlier this week, Costco and the health insurance agency SCAN Health Plan (SCAN) announced that certain Costco locations will start selling Medicare Advantage plans in two states and one Medicare Supplement plan in a third state. As of publication, the companies have not shared which locations will offer these insurance plans, but since SCAN only offers Medicare Advantage plans in Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Washington state, it’s safe to assume that the deal will only be offered there.

“For the millions of older adults who rely on Medicare Advantage, the future of the program depends on strong partnerships that make healthcare more accessible, more connected and more seamlessly integrated into everyday life,” Sachin H. Jain, CEO of SCAN Group and SCAN Health Plan, said in a statement. “Older adults want healthcare that is easier to navigate, more responsive to their needs and rooted in organizations they trust. Our expanded partnership with Costco will give us a strong foundation to explore new ways to help people stay healthy and independent while delivering the quality, value and service both of our organizations are known for.”

How much does a Medicare plan at Costco cost? 

As of publication, the cost of a Medicare Advantage plan has not been shared. It also has not been revealed what the plans offered by SCAN will include, but we do know a free Costco membership will not be included, since federal rules don’t allow health insurance plans to include free store memberships as part of their coverage. 

“For more than 40 years, Costco has consistently listened to our Members and earned their trust delivering consistent value on essential goods and expanding our health service offerings,” Ron Vachris, CEO of Costco said in the same statement. “Selecting SCAN as our partner to deliver a better healthcare experience for seniors is an extension of that commitment. We have developed a shared understanding of what matters most to the seniors we serve. Deepening our partnership allows us to build on that foundation and create value for our Members.”

Healthcare

2027 Medicare Costs Are Rising. Are You Ready?

July is almost halfway over, which means that we’re getting closer and closer to the 2027 Medicare open enrollment period. But what is the open enrollment period? And what can new and returning enrollees do to prepare? Below, we share everything to know about the 2027 Medicare enrollment period, including the one thing an expert […]

How to qualify for a Medicare plan at Costco

Nationwide, anyone age 65 years and older qualifies for Medicare, meaning once the insurance plan is offered through Costco, people of that age will be able to enroll in the program. The one caveat: Seniors must enroll in a plan in the state they live in, meaning they must live near a Costco that is offering the plan. 

There is also no information on when the plans will be available, meaning that even if seniors do qualify for a Medicare Advantage plan at Costco, they might not be able to enroll in it for 2027, since open enrollment begins on October 15 and ends on December 7, 2026.

“I think the interesting thing about Costco’s entry into Medicare Advantage is that it gives plans another way to reach people. A lot of Medicare enrollment has traditionally occurred through brokers, and partnerships like this create an alternative channel by putting a plan in front of consumers through a brand they already know and trust,” Josh Schultz, head of Government Affairs at the healthcare technology company Softheon, says. “More broadly, I think this is something we could see more of as Medicare Advantage plans look for new ways to reach consumers. It is a different approach to enrollment and marketing, and it will be interesting to see how successful these partnerships are over time.” 

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A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) revealed that 93 percent of adults aged 70 to 79 qualify for cholesterol-lowering statins.  This study came after the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association released new 2026 cholesterol guidelines earlier this year. The new guidelines have many seniors asking if they should be taking the medications, and wondering, if they  do qualify for statins, will the drugs be covered by Medicare? And if not, are there any other ways to get statins for less? We share everything you need to know below. 

Healthcare

Have Diabetes? What Medicare Will and Won’t Cover, Plus Tips To Save Big

According to UChicago Medicine, one in three Americans 65 and older are living with diabetes. Many are also on Medicare, a government-funded health insurance plan that can help cover the costs of certain medical appointments, prescriptions, procedures and more. But that coverage comes with many different rules and regulations—the fine print—that can make it harder […]

First, what are statins? 

Statins are a prescription medication used to lower LDL or bad cholesterol, which can help reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. The medication does have side effects, including muscle aches, liver issues, cognitive changes and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, but it’s considered safe by most medical professionals. 

Healthcare

What Medicare Covers for Heart Disease—and What It Doesn't

According to the World Health Organization,19.8 million people died from cardiovascular diseases in 2022. And seniors—many of whom are on Medicare—are one of the groups most affected by the condition. But what does Medicare cover when it comes to heart disease care? Read on for the answer.  A quick heart disease overview   Common heart issues […]

Does Medicare cover statins? 

Medicare does cover statins for people whose prescriptions are covered by Medicare Advantage plans or by a standalone Part D prescription drug plan.

“Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with high cholesterol and heart disease will find that Medicare prescription drug plans cover the most common statin medications, usually with a reasonable copay,” Whitney Stidom, vice president of consumer enablement at eHealth, an online health insurance marketplace, explains. “That coverage typically includes generic statin drugs such as atorvastatin, rosuvastatin and simvastatin, and copays can be as low as $0 when using the insurance carrier’s mail-order pharmacy for 90-day home deliveries. It’s worth noting, however, that brand-name statins may require prior authorization or step therapy [which is when insurance companies make patients try lower-cost medications before approving the originally prescribed one], depending on the rules of the beneficiary’s plan.”

She also notes that for people on Medicare Advantage plans, other programs can help them manage their cholesterol without medication, including a Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan, which is an insurance plan that can be tailored to people with severe heart disease. 

“For Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with heart disease, it may be helpful to opt for a specialized Medicare Advantage plan known as a Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP),” she says. “These plans are designed for beneficiaries with certain chronic conditions, offering coordinated care, specialized provider networks and more affordable access to prescription drugs to help people better manage cardiovascular disorders or chronic heart failure.”  

What to do if your Medicare plan doesn’t cover statins 

If your Medicare plan doesn’t cover statins, there are a few things you can do. The first is to pay full price for the medication, but that choice will most likely cost you quite a bit. GoodRX reports that 30 10-mg tablets can cost $47.60 on average. 

The second is to see if your medication is included in any direct-to-consumer pharmacies like TrumpRx, Amazon Pharmacy, GoodRX, Hims & Hers, and Honeybee Health. Sometimes those companies offer medication at a lower price without insurance or give you a coupon that you can use to get them for less at your local pharmacy. 

“For people enrolled solely in Original Medicare, which does not include prescription drug coverage, beneficiaries would be responsible for the full cost of statins. This is important to recognize, even for people who rarely visit a pharmacy,” Stidom says. “Prescription needs can change unexpectedly, and the risk of developing chronic conditions increases by age. In fact, 88 percent of Americans 65 and older take at least one prescription medication, so it is important for Medicare beneficiaries to understand their current drug coverage and confirm it meets their needs now and in the future.” 

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Did you know that some Medicare plans offer cards that can help pay for your groceries? That’s right! A select number of Medicare Advantage (or Medicare Part C) plans offer a “Medicare Grocery Card” loaded with up to $200. To learn more about how to get it, and if there are any groceriers you can’t buy with the cards, keep scrolling! 

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Every Store That Accepts SNAP Benefits—Plus How to Qualify in 2026

As the cost of everyday items continues to rise, millions of Americans are searching for ways to help them afford the products that they need. And many are turning to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or  food stamps, a government-funded program that gives grocery money to Americans who need it. But what stores can SNAP […]

What is a Medicare Grocery Card? 

A Medicare Grocery Card is a grocery allowance debit card given to seniors enrolled in a Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP), a type of Medicare Advantage plan designed for those with severe or disabling chronic conditions.

“Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a grocery allowance as part of the benefit package, which may also include vision, dental and hearing coverage,” says Whitney Stidom, vice president of consumer enablement at eHealth. “For Medicare Advantage plans that offer it, the Medicare grocery benefit may be offered as a monthly, quarterly or annual allowance for eligible food and grocery items. Most plans that offer this benefit will send beneficiaries a card that they can use at participating stores, including many national and regional markets.” 

How to qualify for a Medicare Grocery Card

To qualify for a Medicare Grocery Card you must be eligible for a C-SNP. The 15 conditions that are currently eligible for that according to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are: 

• Chronic alcohol and other drug dependence
• Autoimmune disorders (limited to)
  • Polyarteritis nodosa
  • Polymyalgia rheumatica
  • Polymyositis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Cancer, excluding pre-cancer conditions or in-situ status
• Cardiovascular disorders (limited to)
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Chronic venous thromboembolic disorder
  • Chronic heart failure
• Dementia
• Diabetes
• End-stage liver disease
• End-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis
• Severe hematologic disorders (limited to)
  • Aplastic anemia
  • Hemophilia
  • Immune thrombocytopenic purpura
  • Myelodysplastic syndrome
  • Sickle-cell disease (excluding sickle-cell trait)
• HIV/AIDS
• Chronic lung disorders (limited to)
  • Asthma
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema
  • Pulmonary fibrosis
  • Pulmonary hypertension
• Chronic and disabling mental health conditions (limited to)
  • Bipolar disorders
  • Major depressive disorders
  • Paranoid disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Schizoaffective disorder
• Neurologic disorders (limited to)
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
  • Epilepsy
  • Extensive paralysis (i.e., hemiplegia, quadriplegia, paraplegia, monoplegia)
  • Huntington’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Polyneuropathy
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Stroke-related neurologic deficit
• Stroke

In addition to being diagnosed with one or more of those conditions, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part C and have your doctor sign a Verification of Chronic Condition (VCC) form during the standard open enrollment period, which begins October 15. 

“These types of plans are becoming increasingly popular, with enrollment surging significantly during the last year to over 1.1 million people,” says Stidom. “Even so, many older Americans overlook these specialized plans, given 68 percent of Medicare beneficiaries have two or more chronic conditions yet fewer than 5 percent of enrollees are in a C-SNP.” 

Stidom also notes that when it comes to signing up for a C-SNP plan, not all are the same, so she recommends doing your research before open enrollment.

“For instance, some C-SNPs may provide additional resources for people with diabetes, including improved coverage for blood glucose monitoring supplies or access to lifestyle programs focused on improving nutrition and exercise habits,” she explains. 

Healthcare

Medicare's Hidden Perks Could Save You Thousands This Year

Most seniors know that Medicare covers medical expenses like prescriptions, outpatient procedures, vaccines and more. What many don’t know is that there are several hidden Medicare benefits, including perks like a free gym membership and nutrition counseling. Below, we share seven surprising Medicare benefits and offer details on how seniors can cash in!  7 surprising […]

What does a Medicare Grocery Card cover? 

When you get your Medicare Grocery Card, you can purchase all types of fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, cereal, flour, sugar, frozen foods and canned food. Items you cannot purchase include pet items, candy, chips, desserts, fresh baked goods, soda, alcohol and tobacco. The card is accepted at most major grocery and convenience stores including Kroger, Publix, Safeway, Walgreens and CVS. The cards are typically preloaded monthly or quarterly with with amounts ranging from $25 to $200. 

“One of the best ways retirees can stretch their grocery budget is to make sure they’re taking advantage of every benefit available through their health coverage,” assures Stidom. “Because these benefits vary by plan and eligibility requirements, it’s worth reviewing your coverage each year to ensure you’re not overlooking savings that could support both your budget and your long-term health.”

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If you’ve ever paid off a medical bill only to receive another bill from your insurance months later, you’re not alone. Insurance companies can—and often do—reopen previously closed claims, resulting in unexpected charges. To learn why this happens and what you can do about it, keep scrolling!

Healthcare

I Almost Fell Victim to Medical Debt Scammers: Here’s How To Stay Safe

After nearly going blind in August of 2024 and undergoing an emergency retinal detachment surgery, I thought all of my troubles were over. But then something even scarier came into play…medical debt scammers. Almost every day, I received texts from supposed debt collectors who claimed to work for the hospital. The messages insisted that I […]

Can medical insurance companies reopen a claim?

Unfortunately for us, yes, they can. Here’s how the process typically works: After a medical appointment or test, your doctor’s office submits the bill to your insurance company. The insurer reviews the claim and decides what they’ll cover based on the specific terms of your plan. Once they’ve made their determination, they send you a bill for your portion of the costs—known as your patient responsibility.

You pay that bill, either all at once or through a payment plan, and assume you’re done with that particular medical expense. The claim appears closed, the balance shows zero, and you move on with your life.

But sometimes, insurance companies reopen these closed claims and charge you additional money. According to Karim Hachem, Founder and CEO at Valedo, this can happen weeks, months or even years after the original payment was processed.

“How long they have to do this depends on the reason for the adjustment and the regulations governing your specific plan. Many healthcare providers report seeing recoupments—where insurance companies take back payments—years after the original payment was issued,” he explains. “This means you could receive a new bill for a medical service you thought was already settled long ago.”

This practice, while shocking to many patients, is legal in most cases. The timeframe during which insurers can reopen claims varies by state and depends on the type of plan you have, whether it’s regulated by state or federal law, and the specific reason for the adjustment. To find out information about your state, visit your state’s Department of Insurance website. 

Healthcare

Stop Overpaying Your Medicare Bills

After a doctor’s visit, it’s typical for your insurance company to send an Explanation of Benefits​ (EOB), which is an explanation of what your bill will be—and it usually arrives before the bill itself. But many Medicare users say understanding the EOB can be difficult, especially since there are a variety of added fees and […]

What to do if your insurance company reopens a claim

If your insurance company reopens a claim, the first thing you should do is find out exactly why this is happening. Steven H. Craft, Jr., founder and principal at Lucleon Insurance in Florida, recommends contacting your insurance company or doctor’s office directly to get answers.

“If new evidence comes to light, a payment error is identified, fraud is suspected or the original adjustment was based on incomplete or inaccurate information, any insurer may review a claim. That will depend on the particular policy and state law, but a reopened claim should never be regarded as a free pass for overturning an earlier decision,” he says. “Request a written explanation, citing the policies upon which the change is based, facts and any additional information supporting the change. Check the original adjuster’s sent reports and compare them against the explanation. If the insurer’s explanation does not match the policy or file, work through the insurer’s appeal process.”

It’s also crucial to document everything related to the reopened claim. Keep copies of all bills, Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements, payment receipts and any correspondence you receive. Make sure to note the dates and names of anyone you speak with about the issue. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process, consider contacting your state’s insurance department or a patient advocate who can help you navigate the appeals process and protect your rights.

Next, work with both your medical provider and insurance company to create a plan forward. They can help you understand your payment options, including whether you qualify for an extension or payment plan that makes the additional charges more manageable.

“We always recommend working closely with your provider and your insurance carrier to understand the reasons for the recoupment or reversal and filing appeals as appropriate to illustrate why payment is owed or having the provider correct the claim to reflect the services rendered accurately,” Hachem says. “Sometimes the fix is a quick phone call or faxing clinical documentation and the rest is history. But never ignore payment reversals!”

The bottom line? Don’t panic if you receive an unexpected medical bill for a claim you thought was closed, but don’t ignore it either. Take action quickly, ask questions, and advocate for yourself throughout the process.

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A Medicare Part D subsidy called the Premium Stabilization Demonstration is coming to an end this year. In a recent X (formerly known as Twitter) post, which was first covered by the Wall Street Journal, Mehmet Oz, MD, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), announced that the subsidy, which is meant to keep the cost of coverage down, is ceasing all operations once the year is up. The move comes less than a year after President Donald Trump announced his own direct-to-consumer drug company, TrumpRx, which offers medications to all Americans at a lower rate but does not accept insurance. The announcement also comes after the president and his administration vowed several times to protect Medicare and this nation’s seniors. To learn more about the cuts, including what it means for seniors on Medicare Part D and for open enrollment, keep scrolling. 

Healthcare

Save Hundreds on Cataract Surgery with These Medicare Money Secrets

According to HealthinAging.org, 20 percent of people 65 and older and  50 percent of 75-year-olds have a cataract. And most of that 50 percent are enrolled in Medicare. But what does the government-funded healthcare cover in terms of cataracts? And will Medicare cover the cost of special cataract glasses? We recently spoke to an expert […]

What to know about the Medicare Part D subsidy cuts

Medicare coverage comes in four parts—Part A (which covers inpatient hospital stays, nursing facility care and hospice), Part B (which covers doctor services, outpatient care and preventive tests), Part C (also known as Medicare Advantage, which combines Parts A and B) and Part D (which helps pay for the brand-name and generic drugs). Most seniors enroll in A, B or C and then add D to help pay for their medications. In 2026, Part D cost seniors an average of $34.50 to $36 a month, however if they bundled Part D with Medicare Advantage, or Part C, it cost around $8 a month. 

As it stands, 81.2 percent of seniors have Part D coverage, according to CMS. To help control premium costs for that group the government launched the Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration in 2025, which provided additional federal support to insurers to reduce sudden increases for drug prices and allowed people enrolled in a standalone Medicare Part D plan (meaning they got coverage through an individual plan, not one included in a Medicare Advantage plan) to pay for the program without having to worry about sudden increases in premium costs. The subsidy was a direct result of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which was passed by Congress and  then signed into law by former President Joe Biden in 2022. 

“I wish I hadn’t called it that because it has less to do with reducing inflation than it has to do with providing alternatives that generate economic growth,” former President Biden said in 2023, according to AP News. “We’re literally reducing the cost of people being able to meet their basic needs.”

Now, a year after seniors on Medicare Part D felt the impact of the IRA and the part that significantly helps them—the Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration—it’s all coming to an end. The reason for that decision? Trump’s Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) initiative, a system the president designed to reduce the cost of drugs. Dr. Oz also said that the CMS’ new Medicare Bridge Program, which gives seniors access to certain GLP-1 medications for just $50 a month, also impacted the decision to stop the subsidy. 

“We are stabilizing the market so this bailout is no longer needed,” Dr. Oz wrote on X late last night. “Every Medicare beneficiary still has access to low-cost plans, and we will continue to lower prescription drug prices for every American patient, from more MFN deals to our policy giving seniors access to GLP-1s for $50 a month.” 

Healthcare

What Really Happens at a Medicare Wellness Visit? An Expert Explains

Every year Medicare Part B users are allowed to get a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)—a nonphysical check-up that allows them and their medical provider to create a personalized prevention plan. The exams aren’t meant to be scary, but as with any medical appointment, worries and questions can arise. That’s why we sat down with […]

How stopping Medicare Part D’s Premium Stabilization Demonstration will impact seniors 

Stopping Medicare Part D’s Premium Stabilization Demonstration might mean some seniors have to pay more for their Part D coverage now that there is no law limiting it from increasing at an aggressive rate. 

As for open enrollment—which begins on October 15—seniors will not feel the effects there since everyone who is eligible for Medicare will still be able to opt into Medicare Part D. The end of the Premium Stabilization Demonstration will just change how much each person pays for Medicare Part D.  

Dr. Oz says ending Medicare Part D’s Premium Stabilization Demonstration means premiums will “go up by less than $10 for most Medicare recipients, with many even seeing LOWER premiums.” However, since the CMS has not officially announced the cost of Medicare in 2027, that could change. 

But experts are worried about the change. Leslie Dach, a chair at Protect Our Care, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people get affordable healthcare, said, “Donald Trump and Republicans are making healthcare more expensive for seniors at every turn.”  

“For older Americans living on fixed incomes, even an extra $10 or $20 a month can mean choosing between filling their prescription, paying the electric bill or buying groceries,” he added in a statement obtained by Newsweek. 

As it stands, seniors will not feel the effects of this shift until 2027. The subsidies still stand for the rest of 2026.

July is almost halfway over, which means that we’re getting closer and closer to the 2027 Medicare open enrollment period. But what is the open enrollment period? And what can new and returning enrollees do to prepare? Below, we share everything to know about the 2027 Medicare enrollment period, including the one thing an expert says can end up costing people $200 to $300 or more per month.

Healthcare

Medicare Advantage versus Medigap: Which One Saves You More in 2026?

We’re less than two weeks away from the end of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which means seniors on Medicare Advantage plans don’t have much time to decide if they want to change their coverage or return to Original Medicare. They also have to decide if they want to enroll in a Medigap plan […]

What to know about the 2027 Medicare open enrollment period

The 2027 Medicare open enrollment period takes place from October 15 to December 7, 2026. During that time, people age 65 or older can enroll, re-enroll or change plans in the government-sponsored health insurance program.

“Savvy Medicare beneficiaries can start preparing now for the upcoming annual enrollment period, including by taking advantage of any free unused preventive care benefits through their current plan and by determining if their health status or financial circumstances have changed since last enrolling in Medicare coverage,” says Whitney Stidom, vice president of consumer enablement at eHealth, an online health insurance marketplace.

She notes that beneficiaries will receive an annual notice of change letter in the coming months detailing their plan is and what they need to know about any upcoming changes.

“An important step is to review the annual ‘notice of change’ letter, which will be sent in September to Medicare Advantage and Part D enrollees letting them know if their current plan will be changing or in some cases no longer available,” Stidom says. “Given the significant Medicare plan changes we’ve seen in recent years, millions of beneficiaries will want to review these letters carefully to understand how their coverage may be affected and if they will need to select a new option for 2027.” 

What to know about the plans offered during the 2027 Medicare open enrollment period

Medicare comes with four plan options—A, B, C (also known as Medicare Advantage) and D, which is optional prescription drug coverage. There is also a Medicare Supplement plan, or Medigap, a private health insurance plan that covers out-of-pocket costs—like coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. All plans offer different coverage.

According to Stidom, “Medicare beneficiaries who live on a fixed income and who typically live in one place year-round tend to prefer Medicare Advantage. For people who may have a little more spending power, Original Medicare [A or B]  paired with a Medicare Supplement plan and a Part D plan may be the best option.” 

Anyone can change plans during open enrollment, but Stidom says the best time to enroll in Medicare Supplement is when you first become eligible (generally around your 65th birthday). “Delaying means beneficiaries will have to undergo medical underwriting and could be charged more for coverage or even declined based on the individual’s medical history.” 

Healthcare

What to Do If You Missed Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare open enrollment officially ended on Sunday, December 7, and millions of Americans are now prepared for their healthcare needs in 2026. Missed the deadline or fear you chose the wrong plan? No worries! Keep reading to find out what you can do if you missed the boat.   What to do if you don’t enroll […]

How much does Medicare cost in 2027? 

Medicare costs for 2027 have not been announced yet, but according to the latest Medicare Trustees Report, the standard Medicare Part B monthly premium is projected to be around $209.50—a 3.25 percent increase from 2026. That number is just an estimate, and according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), they won’t know the actual increase until late autumn.

Even so, to help prepare for the anticipated increased cost, Stidom recommends reviewing your current plan—or reviewing the plans offered for first-time enrollees—and making sure you are only paying for what you need.

“For people who can afford it, sticking with Original Medicare and adding a Medicare Supplement plan and a standalone Part D drug plan can help beneficiaries cover many of the same gaps and out-of-pocket costs,” she says. “And unlike Medicare Advantage, which uses the insurance company’s provider network, Original Medicare allows people to see any doctor or medical care provider that accepts Medicare nationwide. However, beneficiaries who layer a Medicare Supplement plan and a Part D plan on top of their Original Medicare coverage can expect to pay $200 to $300 or more per month.”  

“It is a good idea for Medicare beneficiaries to review their plan options every year. In addition, personal health and financial situations often change, so the plan that worked in the past may not be the optimal choice this time,” she explains.  

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Calcium. Vitamin D. A daily multivitamin. The list of nutrients doctors recommend for good health keeps growing, and so does the cost of keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet. For families already stretching grocery budgets, the running tab on supplements can feel like one expense too many.

The good news: you do not have to choose between your health and your household budget. A handful of straightforward tactics can cut what you spend on vitamins, and some can even bring the cost down to zero. Here is how to get the nutrients you need without paying full retail.

Ask your pharmacy about free vitamins

Free is a hard price to beat, and it is available at more places than most shoppers realize.

Many Good Neighbor Pharmacy locations offer free 30-day supplies of vitamins to customers, including a version formulated specifically for adults 50 and over. Good Neighbor is a network of independently owned community pharmacies, which means the participating stores are often the same neighborhood drugstores families have used for years. You can find the nearest location at MyGNP.com.

The 50-and-over formulation is worth noting. Nutrient needs shift with age. Older adults often require more vitamin D and B12, and the balance of other vitamins and minerals in a standard multivitamin may not match what a 60-year-old body needs the way it matches a 30-year-old’s. A free supply designed for that stage of life is a practical starting point, particularly for retirees on fixed incomes.

Before you go, it is worth calling ahead. Free offers can vary by location, and pharmacy staff can confirm what is currently available and whether any sign-up is required.

Healthcare

Medicare's Hidden Perks Could Save You Thousands This Year

Most seniors know that Medicare covers medical expenses like prescriptions, outpatient procedures, vaccines and more. What many don’t know is that there are several hidden Medicare benefits, including perks like a free gym membership and nutrition counseling. Below, we share seven surprising Medicare benefits and offer details on how seniors can cash in!  7 surprising […]

Get your doctor to write a prescription

This one surprises people: some vitamins can be covered by health insurance if your doctor prescribes them.

Health insurance companies often pay for all or part of your vitamins when there is a documented medical need and a prescription on file. The specifics depend on your plan and the vitamin in question, but the categories that most commonly qualify include prenatal vitamins, high-dose vitamin D for people with a diagnosed deficiency and certain B vitamins prescribed for particular conditions.

The process is simpler than it sounds. At your next appointment, ask your doctor whether any of the vitamins you take could be prescribed rather than bought over the counter. If the answer is yes, your doctor sends the prescription to your pharmacy the same way they would with any other medication. Your insurance is then billed, and you pay the copay — which is frequently less than the retail price of the bottle.

Before making assumptions about what is covered, call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card or log in to your plan’s website and check the formulary — the list of medications your plan covers. Ask specifically about prescription vitamins and what documentation, if any, the plan requires.

Use pre-tax dollars from an FSA or HSA

If you have a Flexible Spending Account or a Health Savings Account through your employer, you may already have a tool to buy vitamins with pre-tax dollars — which effectively gives you a discount equal to your tax rate.

FSAs and HSAs both allow you to set aside money from your paycheck before taxes are withheld, then spend that money on qualified medical expenses. Vitamins have historically been a gray area for these accounts. The general rule is that vitamins purchased for general wellness are not eligible, but vitamins prescribed by a healthcare provider for a specific medical need often are.

The key document is called a letter of medical necessity. If your doctor determines that you need a particular vitamin to treat or prevent a diagnosed condition—iron for anemia, for example, or calcium and vitamin D for bone loss—they can write a brief letter explaining that necessity. You then submit the letter through your FSA or HSA plan, along with your receipts, to get reimbursed with pre-tax dollars.

The savings add up. If you are in a 22 percent federal tax bracket, buying a $30 bottle of vitamins with pre-tax dollars effectively costs you closer to $23. Over a year of monthly purchases, that difference is meaningful.

Life

Hidden Health Insurance Benefits That Could Save You Hundreds

What if you could get paid to take a walk, score a gym membership for less than the cost of a latte, or even have meals delivered to your door—all without spending an extra dime? These hidden health insurance benefits are already tucked inside your plan. The catch? Most people have no idea they exist. […]

A few more habits that stretch your dollar

Beyond these three tactics, a little strategy at the checkout counter helps too. Store-brand vitamins from major retailers are typically manufactured to the same standards as name brands and cost significantly less. Buying larger bottles usually lowers the per-pill price, provided you can use the supply before the expiration date. And signing up for pharmacy loyalty programs can unlock coupons and rewards on repeat purchases.

Whatever combination of tactics you use, the underlying point is the same: the recommended daily nutrients that keep you healthy do not have to come at a premium price. A short conversation with your doctor, a call to your insurer and a stop by your neighborhood pharmacy can go a long way toward keeping both your body and your budget in good shape.

A version of this story first appeared in the July 20, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine. 

The new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program, which will allow seniors to get certain GLP-1 drugs for just $50 a month and is part of The Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive Health (BALANCE) Program, starts July 1. And while some experts are excited for expanded access to medication typically used to treat type 2 diabetes and for weight loss, others warn that it could do more harm than good. But what exactly is the GLP-1 Bridge program? And is it too late to enroll in it? We break it all down below.

What is the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program? 

The Bridge program was originally announced in December 2025 under the name The BALANCE Program. At the time, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) said that the program would help participants enrolled in the Medicare Part D plan—the part that covers outpatient prescription drugs—get GLP-1s for just $50 a month under President Donald Trump’s Most Favored Nations drug pricing deal, which allows drugs in the United States to be as low as they are in other high-income nations. 

“Today’s announcement builds upon our historic Most Favored Nations drug pricing deals’ goal of democratizing access to weight-loss medication, which has been out of reach for so many in need,” CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz, MD, said in a statement in December 2025. “These actions further the administration’s bold plan to reform our country’s health systems and Make America Healthy Again. With the BALANCE Model, we’re pairing breakthrough science with healthy living to cut costs while empowering Americans to take control of their health.”

Healthcare

What Really Happens at a Medicare Wellness Visit? An Expert Explains

Every year Medicare Part B users are allowed to get a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)—a nonphysical check-up that allows them and their medical provider to create a personalized prevention plan. The exams aren’t meant to be scary, but as with any medical appointment, worries and questions can arise. That’s why we sat down with […]

When does the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program start?

The program begins on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 and goes until December 31, 2027. During that time, people with Medicare Part D will have the opportunity to buy 30-day supplies of GLP-1s from either Wegovy, Zepbound and Foundayo for just $50 at select pharmacies, including Walgreens. 

“The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge seeks to test whether providing access to GLP-1 products at a uniform, CMS-negotiated net price will help improve beneficiary outcomes and reduce long-term Medicare spending,” Kelly Strachan, CMS health insurance specialist and Innovation Center fellow, said, according to The Hill. 

Some experts have raised concerns

Some experts are concerned that the program could open the door for more Medicare-related fraud issues, something the Trump Administration has been cracking down on.

“It requires the provider to fill out this really detailed prior authorization form to send that in before approval can happen. So, you have a check and balance that requires the coordination between two different entities—the provider and the pharmacy—to actually get the fraud,” Christopher Frisina, healthcare regulatory counsel at the law firm Alston & Bird, told The Hill. “It’s not going to be as straightforward as some of the fraud schemes that we often see, but I don’t think it’s outside of the realm of possibility.”

There are also conversations about how detrimental it could be for Medicare beneficiaries to lose access to GLP-1 medications designed to improve their health if the program doesn’t continue past December 2027. 

“What we do know is that many people regain weight quickly after stopping them, which suggests this may become a lifelong medication for many users,” Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. “From a financial standpoint, someone is ultimately footing the bill, and right now there are very few answers about what happens after December 31, 2027.”

Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, also told the outlet, “The greatest concern is that while in the short-term the program could provide health benefits to those who need help with weight management, in the long-term, those same problems could return if there is a failure to extend the program past its current end date.” 

How to enroll in the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program

To enroll in the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program and get access to certain GLP-1 drugs at a discounted rate, Medicare Part D participants must speak to their providers on or after July 1. If your provider decides you are a fit, you can then jointly submit a Prior Authorization Request that will be submitted to CMS for review.

As of publication, CMS has not shared how they plan to determine who can and cannot enroll in the program. They also haven’t shared if people who apply and are denied can reapply before the program’s end date in December 2027.

Healthcare

Medicare Advantage Overpays Are Cutting Your Social Security Check

A new report from the United States Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC) reveals that Americans are overpaying for Medicare Advantage plans, causing Medicare Part B premiums to rise. What’s more, because of higher Part B premiums, many seniors are experiencing reduced Social Security benefits. To learn more, keep reading.  What to know about the new […]

More ways to get GLP-1s for less

If you don’t have Medicare Part D benefits or are denied coverage under the Bridge program, there are still several other ways to save on GLP-1 drugs. One option is President Trump’s direct-to-consumer pharmacy TrumpRx, which sells GLP-1 pills and injectables for less than the retail price you might pay at the pharmacy. 

Other savings strategies like manufacturer discount programs, comparison shopping and using HSA or FSA funds could help certain eligible adults get GLP-1s for as little as $25 a month. You could also discuss microdosing a GLP-1 with your doctor, which cuts down on costs.

As a nationally-renowned broadcast journalist, Natalie Morales, 52, is no stranger to asking the hard questions. But when it came to her mother-in-law’s Alzheimer diagnosis, it proved to be a bit more difficult. When Morales’ mother-in-law, Kay Rhodes, was diagnosed with the disease, there weren’t therapies and treatment options available like there is today. The stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s was also heightened, with fear ruling people’s lives as opposed to knowledge. 

Woman’s World recently sat down with Morales to discuss her family’s experience with the disease, as well as her partnership with Eli Lilly and Kinsula, an Amyloid-targeting therapy.

“The reason I’m doing this work is to have these conversations to help others recognize the importance of acting early and understanding that there are options available today that there weren’t years ago,” Morales shared exclusively with Woman’s World. 

Woman’s World: Can you share a bit about your partnership with Eli Lilly and why it’s so important to you?

Natalie Morales: As a reporter and a journalist who has reported on Alzheimer’s disease many times in my career, it’s important, but it also personally affected my family. My mother-in-law was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s when she was 53, my age. I think about that a lot, especially now as I’m getting older, what that looks like to receive that type of diagnosis. Back then, over 25 years ago, there were not a lot of disease-modifying therapies or treatments that existed. In my job as a reporter, I’m always asking questions. There wasn’t a lot out there, and that’s why this partnership with Eli Lilly and Kisunla is so important to me. I’m passionate about it because Lilly has been doing the research in this space for over 30 years, and they’ve really been at the forefront of a lot of treatment options. 

Now with Kisunla, there are amyloid-targeting therapies that are available for early stage diagnoses. This was something that was not available to us, and I want people to be aware of the options and have those conversations with their doctors if they or a loved one are dealing with memory or thinking issues. 

WW: This is such a prevalent topic. So many people have their own experience with Alzheimer’s, whether personally or within their circle.

Natalie Morales: Yes, and more so as baby boomers age. My parents are in their early- to mid-80s right now, so I’m very cognizant of if they start repeating themselves in conversations or if they are searching for words. I’m always asking my sisters, who live a little bit closer to them, to make sure mom and dad seem okay. These are all things that we need to be talking about because, as you said, everyone most likely, if not directly then indirectly, will have a connection to Alzheimer’s disease, as we do have an aging population.

Wellness

Julianne Moore Reveals the Brain Health Habit She Swears By (EXCL)

If you’ve ever worried about forgetting where you put your keys or blanked on a familiar name, you’re not alone—and neither is Academy Award-winning actress Julianne Moore. The Boogie Nights (1997) and The Kids Are All Right (2010) star has made it her mission to help women like you understand that protecting your brain health […]

WW: Why is it so important to act early if you notice signs of Alzheimer’s in a family member?

Natalie Morales: Because there are options now. There are amyloid-targeting therapies that can help if it’s the right treatment for you. There are risks, as with all drugs, and it’s important to talk to your physician and to assess if it’s right for you or your loved one. But there are options now that didn’t exist. I mean, now there are ways to diagnose the disease much sooner with blood tests and genetic testing, so there are things you can do to empower yourself or your loved ones so that you can plan for the future, whatever it looks like. 

You don’t want to be surprised with a diagnosis like Alzheimer’s disease. It takes a huge toll on a family, and it did on our family. My father-in-law was her primary caregiver, and it took a toll on his health for the 10 years that he took care of her. He had a lot of ailing symptoms, and then he developed Parkinson’s disease. There were a lot of things that really hit him. But beyond that, financially it took a huge toll on him. He drained what they thought was going to be their golden years fund. They were going to travel the world and do a lot of fun things. He never did any of that because he had to become her primary caregiver while she was still so young and she lived for 17 years with this disease. Especially when it’s early onset, her body was still healthy but her brain and her mind were not, and it took a huge toll on our family.

WW: Your mother-in-law experienced symptoms that could’ve been easily misconstrued as signs of normal aging. What were some of those sneaky symptoms that now, looking back, you can see they were actually signs of Alzheimer’s?

Natalie Morales: With my mother-in-law, the signs were more obvious. She was having anxiety, a lot of not being able to think of the words or dropping off mid sentence, repeating herself in conversations. She had difficulty completing pretty familiar tasks, even walking around the neighborhood. She would get lost, and a neighbor would have to bring her home. And then it became even more apparent as the day progressed and the years progressed. She would start to have sundowners and be really confused in the early evening, and so emotionally and mentally drained. She would go to bed early, like 6 pm every night. So, there were a lot of things that were obvious in hindsight, but we didn’t live as close to her as we would have liked, and my father-in-law was taking care of her. So there was a lot more that we wish we could have done to help out. I think that’s why I feel it’s important to talk about. We wish our father-in-law had talked to us more openly and didn’t try to take it all on himself as well.

WW: What do you think families and caregivers facing the disease should know and why should they reach out for support? 

Natalie Morales: The reason I’m doing this work is to have these conversations to help others recognize the importance of acting early and understanding that there are options available today that there weren’t years ago. If someone you love is experiencing any kind of memory or thinking issue, it’s really important to have these conversations as much as you can and to not be afraid to reach out to their doctors. Or for yourself not to be afraid to acknowledge if you’re having memory issues, and to talk to your family about it. Alzheimer’s disease is something that impacts many people in that family, and it’s important that everybody understands your wishes.

WW: Like you said, fear is such a big factor in this as well. You don’t often think about that part of it, but it affects everyone. 

Natalie Morales: It does and also, their world becomes smaller. We saw that with Kay [her mother-in-law]. She self-isolated and she built a shell around herself. This was a woman who was always very engaged in her community. She was at a book club and she was very involved with her neighbors, and for her to then withdraw was very hard to see. She was just afraid to ask. She knew what was happening to her, but she didn’t want to ask for help. My father in law was also in that same vein. I think he didn’t feel like he could ask for help as much as he should have. There’s so many resources. The Alzheimer’s Association was wonderful with my mother-in-law and father-in-law. They sent volunteers to help my father-in-law to give him a couple of hours a week to himself, where he could hang out with his buddies and play golf. Those are just some simple things, but  if you’re a caregiver, it’s important to understand that you can’t do it alone.

WW: How has this journey impacted your own personal health? Are there any habits you’ve picked up on to protect your own brain health and reduce your risk of dementia?

Natalie Morales:  Oh, yes, absolutely. My husband [Joe Rhodes] and I are exercise nuts. We work out pretty much every day, even if it’s just walking the dogs, we walk fast with them every day. I try to challenge my brain. Brain health is so key. It is the most important muscle in our body. If I’m not working out, I am challenging myself and finding new passions and tasks or working on new projects. Whether you brush your teeth with your left hand if you’re right handed or drive your route a different way. Those are the little things you can do, but there are other things. Finding a passion that is new to you. I got back into horseback riding. I did it as a kid, but I’ve been doing that more now, and challenging myself in horse competition. 

Also, talking to my kids and modeling that behavior for them. They exercise every day and they eat right and we have these conversations with them too. We’re not afraid to talk about this because, having dealt with it, we know how important it is for them to understand the genetic risks with Alzheimer’s disease.