It might feel too early to say “Happy New Year.” But if you’re on Medicare, now’s the time to be thinking about it.
Many Medicare Advantage changes will take effect in 2026. Some plans are changing substantially; other plans will no longer be offered in 2026.
The time to think about it is now, during Medicare Annual Open Enrollment period that runs until December 7.
If you use Medicare Advantage, it’s good to understand your options so you can continue to have access to the providers and services that you know and trust.
We’re grateful to the many community members who choose Northfield Hospital + Clinics for their care. If that includes you (or a loved one) and you want to continue getting care from NH+C in 2026, consider choosing one of the Medicare Advantage plans below, or switching to “Original Medicare” coverage. Original Medicare is a benefit administered by the federal government. Medicare Advantage is a commercial product sold by insurance companies.
There are six major Medicare Advantage plans that NH+C expects to accept in 2026. To verify your specific coverage with any Medicare Advantage plan, please contact the health plan directly.
- Aetna: 1-800-972-3601
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN (BCBS): 1-877-554-1272
- HealthPartners: 1-800-247-7015
- Humana: 1-800-457-4708
- Medica: 1-888-222-3197
- UnitedHealthcare: 1-844-699-7144
Original Medicare (1-800-MEDICARE, www.medicare.gov) is also an option. Original Medicare covers you at any hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare. If you choose Original Medicare, consider adding a Medicare Supplement plan to help cover costs. Medicare Supplement plans are offered by many insurance companies in Minnesota.
Wherever you get your healthcare, it’s a good idea to review your options now.
Medicare.gov has a convenient tool to explore your options and compare plans based on your specific details. It also outlines what you can do during Open Enrollment. Call 1-800-633-4227 or visit medicare.gov/
Minnesota Aging Pathways (formerly Senior Linkage Line) is a free, unbiased service from the state of Minnesota that offers assistance to older adults and their families to compare Medicare plans. Call 800-333-2433 or visit mn.gov/aging-pathways
Wishing you good health – and good coverage – in the year ahead.