Medicare-Negotiated Prices for 15 More Drugs Begin in 2027
A significant change is coming for some people who receive prescription drug coverage through Medicare Part D. Beginning January 1, 2027, Medicare-negotiated prices will take effect for 15 additional high-cost medications used to treat conditions such as diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, digestive disorders, and mental health conditions. These medications join the first…
New CMS Program: Certain GLP-1 Medications May Be Available for $50/Month Starting July 2026
CMS has announced a new, time-limited program called the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge. Beginning July 1, 2026, some Medicare beneficiaries may be able to access certain GLP-1 medications for $50 per month, and CMS says the program is expected to run through December 31, 2027. Which medications are included? CMS’ beneficiary guidance indicates that starting July…
Love Your Heart: Simple Blood Pressure & Cholesterol Moves for Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, a great time to check in on two big drivers of heart health: blood pressure and cholesterol. A few small tweaks now can pay off all year. 1) Know your numbers (at home, too) Nearly 7 in 10 adults 60+ live with hypertension; many don’t feel symptoms, so regular checks…
Thinking About an Upgrade? How the 5-Star Special Enrollment Period Works
If a 5-Star Medicare Advantage or Part D plan is offered where you live, you can use a one-time Special Enrollment Period to switch anytime from Dec 8 through Nov 30—including right now in February. It’s a handy option if you missed AEP or your January experience wasn’t what you expected. What “5-Star” means Medicare…
New Year, Strong Heart: A Simple Routine You’ll Actually Keep
January’s perfect for a reset you can do at home (or at a mall, rec center, or hallway on rainy days). For adults 65+, aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, 2+ days of muscle-strengthening, and regular balance work. Think brisk walking + light resistance + a few minutes standing on one foot…
Protect Your Medicare in 2026: Scam watch + breach checklist
Scammers ramp up right after Open Enrollment. Add in a couple of big 2025 security headlines, and January is the perfect time to tighten up your defenses. Here’s a quick, plain-English guide you can send to clients. What changed lately (and why it matters) Top Medicare scams we’re seeing now Quick steps to protect yourself…
The “Do-Over” Window: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan 1–Mar 31)
If you’re already in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, you get a once-per-year chance (Jan 1–Mar 31) to switch to a different MA plan (with or without drug coverage) or return to Original Medicare and join a Part D plan. Any change generally starts the first day of the month after the plan gets your…
AEP’s Over — Now What?
AEP is officially in the rear-view, and now it’s all about making sure your 2026 coverage starts smooth on Jan 1 and knowing your options if something isn’t right. 1) Look for your plan welcome kit & Evidence of Coverage (EOC) Your plan mails an EOC each fall that spells out what’s covered, copays, rules…
Healthy Holidays: Smart Eating & Low-Stress Celebrations
The holidays should feel warm and easy, not exhausting or derailing your health. Here’s a simple guide to enjoy the season without the sugar crash, sniffles, or stress spiral. 1) Build a better holiday plate 2) Keep leftovers safe (avoid the “two-hour” trap) 3) Plan for calm, not perfect 4) Quick vaccine check Bottom line…
What You’ll Pay for Medicare Part A & B in 2026: A Simple Breakdown
CMS has announced the official 2026 costs for Medicare Part A and Part B, including premiums, deductibles, and some coinsurance amounts. If you’re on Medicare now or about to enroll, here’s a simple explanation of what’s changing and what it might mean for your budget. Medicare Part A: Hospital Coverage Medicare Part A helps cover…