Choices for prescription drug coverage are decreasing for Medicare consumers.
This fall, as Medicare patients explore options for prescription coverage, they might find fewer choices available again. Standalone drug plans have been on the decline in recent years, and this trend is expected to persist into 2026. While certain markets still offer options, it’s becoming increasingly challenging for low-income and subsidized shoppers to find suitable […]
Options for Medicare shoppers regarding prescription drug coverage are decreasing.
Medicare Patients Face Fewer Prescription Coverage Options This Fall This fall, Medicare patients looking for prescription coverage may find their choices shrinking once again. The trend of decreasing standalone drug plans has been ongoing, and it appears set to continue into 2026. While many markets still provide a few options, those beneficial for low-income and […]
Winners and losers from the 2026 Medicare Advantage star ratings
Diving overview: In 2026, the average star rating for Medicare Advantage remained relatively stable after several years of decline, which is encouraging for an industry facing concerns about quality metrics. The performance of leading insurance companies showed differences. UnitedHealthcare maintained a steady percentage of members in four-star or higher plans, while Humana and Aetna saw […]
Certain Medicare Advantage plans will not be available in parts of the Driftless Area, forcing residents to seek new insurance options.
Overview • Several organizations are discontinuing Medicare Advantage plans in parts of the Driftless area. • Many residents in Wisconsin and Minnesota will need to seek new insurance options during open enrollment. • These changes are attributed to limits on prescription drug costs and decreased payments from Medicare to insurance companies. VIROQUA, Wis. — A […]
Health agency unveils 2026 quality ratings for Medicare plans
This illustration, captured on June 27, 2024, displays two American flags alongside a medical product. Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration [1/2]This illustration shows the American flag and medical supplies, taken on June 27, 2024. Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration On October 9, the U.S. government unveiled its Quality Assessment for Medicare Health Care and Prescription Drug Plans for 2026. This assessment […]
Clover Health Discusses 2026 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings and Path to Increased Profitability by 2027
Clover Health Investments Highlights Growth and Star Ratings Clover Health Investments Corporation (Nasdaq: CLOV), a company focused on enhancing healthcare access for Medicare recipients, has shared insights following the release of the 2026 Star ratings by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The star ratings are a crucial aspect as they will impact […]
Your Medicare Part D Plan: Ways to Save by Changing
Medicare Part D’s drug coverage is a crucial aspect of health insurance for retirees. Those with stand-alone Part D plans have various options, and these plans can change significantly from one year to the next, which might mean that switching plans could lead to considerable savings. Features of these plans might include premiums, deductibles, copays, […]
Some Medicare Advantage plans will not be available in certain counties of the Driftless Area, leaving residents seeking new insurance options.
Overview • Several organizations are ceasing Medicare Advantage coverage in various counties within the Driftless region. • Thousands of residents in Wisconsin and Minnesota will need to find new insurance plans during the open enrollment period. • These changes stem from limitations on prescription drug costs and reductions in Medicare contract payments to insurers. VIROQUA, […]
Funds that support Medicare and Social Security may run out within 7 years, possibly reducing benefits by as much as 24%, a new report warns.
The trust funds that underpin Medicare and Social Security, which are essential for around 70 million Americans, are facing serious risks of depleting within the next seven years. This scenario could lead to benefits for retirees being cut by as much as 24%, unless urgent legislative steps are taken. A typical couple reaching 60 this […]
50,000 people in Vermont will look for new Medicare options as key insurers leave the market.
MONTPELIER, VT Approximately 50,000 residents of Vermont are now on the hunt for new health insurance after two major Medicare Advantage providers recently announced their exit from the market for small and medium-sized businesses and individuals. Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Health are both withdrawing from Vermont’s individual Medicare Advantage plans, leaving many seniors […]