TAMPA, Fla. – Staying Healthy in Retirement
Lois Mange and her husband are trying their best to maintain an active lifestyle. “We try to stay healthy, walk, and hit the gym as much as possible,” she shared. Of course, they’re getting older, and there are many things they need to consider.
That’s precisely why they rely on Medicare. When I asked Lois about its importance, she smiled and said, “If Medicare didn’t exist, then we’d have a problem.” With upcoming changes in Medicaid set for 2026, many are wondering if Medicare is also facing any shifts. It’s crucial to distinguish between the two government-funded health programs.
Nicole Green, a sales director at Areva Insurance, mentioned, “There’s a lot of uncertainty and many ‘What ifs’ circulating.” She emphasized that change is an inevitable part of the landscape. While significant adjustments are coming to Medicaid, Green reassured that Medicare should largely remain stable.
Your deductibles and coinsurance might change, along with the providers in your network, she explained. “You need to stay informed.” This uncertainty is prompting Lois to reassess her current plan choices.
“It doesn’t take long. It’s pretty simple, and it’s competitive—lots of companies are out there wanting your business,” Lois added. She wants to ensure her coverage suits her personal needs.
“Different people have different requirements. Some might prioritize transportation benefits, while others might need more hospital services,” she noted. If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, Green said you’ll receive an “annual notice” letter in the mail soon. This will outline your current benefits and any changes for the upcoming year. But, she often finds that people don’t actually read it.
“That letter often ends up sitting on the coffee table. Then the new year rolls in, and suddenly their co-payments can go up from $20 to $40, and they’re left confused,” she said. Green encourages those feeling lost by the notice or unsure about their options to visit any credit union and discuss their situation with representatives.
“If you’re new to Medicare, it can be bewildering. We’re here to help clear things up,” she assured. Areva Insurance works with various plans, recognizing that one size doesn’t fit all.
“Medicare isn’t universal; what works for you might not work for someone else,” she said. It’s essential to sit down with a licensed benefits consultant during the enrollment period to explore what matters most to you. Your health and insurance needs can shift from year to year.
Open enrollment is from October 15 to December 7, with coverage beginning on January 1. However, until March 31, Green refers to this period as “buyer’s regret.” If your choice doesn’t meet your expectations, you can switch plans.
You can drop by any Achieva Credit Union to consult with a benefits representative for more personalized guidance.
Areva also hosts in-person group seminars. Here are the upcoming dates, all at the Achieva Corporate Office: 1659 Areva Way, Dunedin, FL 34698:
- Wednesdays from 9 AM to noon: October 8, 15, 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19; December 3
- Fridays from 9 AM to 2 PM: October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; November 7, 14, 21; December 5
Public Broadcasting Challenges
The recent shutdown of a public broadcasting corporation has significant implications for PBS and NPR stations in Tampa. These stations have been vital in providing treasured programs, from childhood favorites like Mr. Rogers and Sesame Street to cultural series such as Downton Abbey and Ken Burns documentaries, all supported by funding from the Public Broadcasting Corporation.
