Changes in Medicare Advantage Plans for Minnesotans
In Minnesota, about 158,000 individuals will need to switch their health insurance soon, as UCARE announced it will discontinue its Medicare Advantage plan by the end of the year. This marks a significant shift for the nonprofit, prompting concerns among its members.
As we move toward a somewhat unpredictable open enrollment period, five local news outlets sought expert insights. The takeaway? This change affects a large number of people, and shopping for new plans will be essential.
“Folks will really need to be proactive shoppers when the open registration kicks off,” mentioned Professor Jean Abraham from the University of Minnesota’s Department of Health Policy and Management. “They should evaluate the available options and consider reaching out for guidance.”
Abraham highlighted three key considerations for the upcoming registration starting October 15:
- Provider Network: Look at the doctor directory for each plan to confirm your physician is included.
- Out-of-pocket costs: What do the deductibles and copayments look like?
- Premium: What will your monthly payments be?
Registrants will have to choose between Medicare Advantage and traditional Medicare plans, each with its own pros and cons. Traditional Medicare generally offers more flexibility in choosing doctors, but supplemental coverage for services like prescription drugs is often necessary.
Abraham cautioned that the current market suggests more changes may be on the horizon than we’ve seen in recent years. “It’s crucial for people to take the time to research their choices,” she said. At this moment, many options remain uncertain.
According to Kelly Joe Grayner, a healthcare policy analyst with the Minnesota Aging and DHS, the finalized plan should be available by October 1.
Rene Cooper: “Is there a notable difference in the provider network compared to what UCARE offered?”
Grayner: “It’s possible; I can’t say for sure right now, but it’s definitely a possibility.”
Rene Cooper: “Are you concerned that people might lose their preferred doctors?”
Grayner: “Definitely. We’ve often heard from people wanting to stick with their current doctors and know where to go if they fall ill.”
Despite UCARE’s withdrawal, both experts are cautiously optimistic about the availability of Medicare options.
Rene Cooper: “Did you have any inkling about this news in your role with the board on aging or DHS?”
Grayner: “Not really. We were aware of UCARE pulling out of the Medicaid program, but we didn’t anticipate such a drastic withdrawal from the Medicare Advantage market. It’s significant and will pose challenges for Medicare beneficiaries in Minnesota.”
5 Eyewitness News reached out to UCARE for an interview, but a representative indicated that the organization “is not conducting interviews at this time.”
Open enrollment will be open from October 15 to December 31, but Grayner recommends registering by December 7 for a smoother experience.
Both Grayner and Abraham provided resources for those needing assistance in navigating their options:
- Minnesota Aging Routes Phone: 1-800-333-2433
- Consult Medicare.gov—a comprehensive online tool to compare planning options, according to Abraham.
