Buzz, Body, & Bites
A newsletter for actively aging adults Virginia Cooperative Extension Family & Consumer Sciences October 2025 Newsletter
Buzz
Fall signals not only changes in the weather but is also the time to consider making changes to your Medicare coverage. October 15th through December 7th is Medicare Open Enrollment. This is the time to review Part D prescription plans or Part C Medicare Advantage plans and make changes if needed. Your current plan could be very different in 2026 and without comparing, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. You may find yourself locked in a 2026 plan without an option to switch. Even if current coverage is working well now, it may not be next year. Many things can change from year to year. Premiums, co- pays, deductibles, benefits, and more can vary. Part D prescription plan formulates may change, possibly dropping medications that were previously covered, or they could require prior authorizations for some. Part C Medicare Advantage plans may add or drop benefits. Providers may no longer accept certain plans or become out-of-network, affecting co-pays. Any of these issues could negatively affect your healthcare in the coming year. Open Enrollment is also the perfect time for persons with lower incomes to check eligibility for assistance with costs. The Medicare Savings Program can cover the Medicare Part B premium, deductibles, and out-of-pocket co-pays if eligible. The Low-Income Subsidy/Extra Help Program can assist beneficiaries with the cost of Part D prescription plan premiums and pharmacy co-pays. During Open Enrollment, beneficiaries should take the opportunity to compare 2025 plans to the plans available in 2026. It is important to understand your benefits and make changes if needed. Contributed by Elizabeth Wray, Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program Coordinator, New River Valley Agency on Aging.
Open Enrollment Tips Consider your Medicare coverage needs. Check eligibility for assistance with Medicare costs. Check your mail: Many important notices may arrive but be wary of marketing materials and sales agents. Compare plans with a Plan Review: Medicare.gov offers an easy way to compare your options or you can call 1-800- MEDICARE for more information. nationally through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). SHIP partners with local Area Agencies on Aging. Counselors provide FREE, unbiased, confidential Use the SHIP Program for personalized assistance: Assistance is available counseling for those with Medicare, as well as help applying for assistance with Medicare costs. SHIP in Virginia is VICAP, Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program. Contact the SHIP Counselor for your area by calling (800) 552-3402 or visit https://www.shiphelp.org.
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender ex- pression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.
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OCI October 2025
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