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Judge pauses deadline for federal workers to accept Trump's resignation offer; CA state lawmakers take action to enact safeguards against federal immigration enforcement; Study shows air quality disparities from industrial ag in NC.

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Attorney General Pam Bondi strikes a Trump tone at the Justice Department, federal workers get more time to consider buyouts, and an unclassified email request from the White House worries CIA vets.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

Open enrollment brings changes to VT Medicare Advantage market

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Monday, October 21, 2024   

Vermont seniors are encouraged to weigh their health plan options during the Medicare open enrollment period, which runs through December 7.

Many insurers are discontinuing parts of their plans, while MVP Health Care and WellCare are leaving the Vermont Medicare Advantage market.

Department of Financial Regulation Commissioner Kevin Gaffney said those impacted by the changes should carefully weigh their options.

"Oftentimes people look at what they utilize now," said Gaffney, "but then you have to still try to anticipate what I may need in the future."

Gaffney said individuals switching to a Medicare Supplement will also need a Prescription Drug Part D plan, which includes a new $2,000 out-of-pocket cap on prescription drugs.

He said counselors are available through the Area Agencies on Aging or at medicare.gov.

Health care and insurance terms can be confusing, and people selecting a Medicare plan are advised to start early and consider the specialty benefits they'll need - like dental, vision, and hearing.

Dr. Rhonda Randall is chief medical officer with UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual.

She said it's important to consider which types of networks and restrictions fit a person's budget and healthcare needs.

"Is your doctor still in the plan?" said Randall. "Is the medication you take still covered by the plan? And, also understanding the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage."

Randall said when it comes to mental health services, it's important to look for a wide range of options - including telemedicine and visits with licensed professionals.

She said some plans even offer virtual behavioral health care with zero copay.

Meanwhile, open enrollment dates vary for other types of health plans. People with employer-sponsored coverage typically select a plan during a two-to-three week period between September and December. And open enrollment for plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace runs from November 1 to January 15. More information is available at www.UHCOpenEnrollment.com.



Disclosure: UnitedHealthcare contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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