Friends and neighbors,
There is a serious issue affecting thousands of Minnesota seniors right now. Recently, several major healthcare providers in our state – including Avera Health, Essentia Health, North Memorial Health, and Sanford Health – announced they will no longer be part of certain Medicare Advantage (MA) networks. This decision means nearly 60,000 seniors could face the difficult choice of either changing their insurance plan or finding new doctors.
Many seniors choose Medicare Advantage plans for the added benefits like gym memberships or dental coverage. But what’s often not talked about is how these insurers are cutting back on the medical care they cover. Denials for medical services under these plans have increased by 50% in the past year alone. This is leaving seniors in a tough spot, often having to jump through hoops just to get the care they need.
What’s even more concerning is that most people aren’t aware of these changes. About 70% of seniors never shop around for better plans. Half don’t even check their annual coverage changes. This has to change.
Here’s what you can do:
- Review your coverage during open enrollment (Open now!). Do this every single year.
- Make sure you understand your options. Call the Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433 for free help comparing plans
- Check if your doctors and hospitals will still be in your network next year
- Consider all your costs, not just the monthly premium
I’m fighting to fix these issues at the state level, but I need to hear from you too. Please, share your stories with me. What challenges are you facing? What is your experience?
Sincerely,