AEP is Almost gone...

And it did not disappoint. Some plans are cancelling, some are dropping benefits and some have stayed about the same. Main thing is this, you still have time to get yourself set up for 2026.

I never thought Health insurance premiums would be the main point of contention of the longest Govt Shutdown. The Shutdown is over but the problem is still remains.

To everyone who has referred someone to me, thank you.

I have been interviewed on WFXR TV, I have had other agents ask me to take over there list of clients because they are done. I am watching the news for the moment that the premiums may get lowered. As soon as that happens I will let you know. This has been the wildest enrollment period I have seen, just hang on things will work out.

On the Medicare side, I prefer stability to flashy benefits, that will not last. I have tried to make recommendations for plans that will last and more have to get replaced in a year. These plan make it hard on everyone, Drs Pharmacists and you.

Marketplace, I feel your pain, I am there with your, my plan premium is set to go up as well. However, let the Govt work this out, I think we will see this resolve this year. If not call me and we will try to get a plan for you until the premiums go back down. Now that the shutdown is over they are talking about getting the ACA premiums down.

Part B Premium

Well Well Well, we finally know the Medicare Part B premium. This is from a post I made a few days ago but worth repeating...

Part B Premium: $202.90, this is the amount you pay monthly for Medicare Part B. In 2025, it was $185.00, an increase of $17.90.

Part A Deductible: $1,736.00, this is the deductible you pay if you are admitted to the hospital on Original Medicare. In 2025, it was $1,676.00, an increase of $60.00.

Part B Deductible: $283.00, this is deductible you will pay for medical coverage in 2026 annually if you have a Med Supp/ Medigap/ Medicare Supplement plan other than Plan F. In 2025, it was $257.00, an increase of $26.00.

Did I just call the wrong number???

No you didn't, MeadorCare has just upgraded itself considerably.

My wife Polly is answering the phone for me (very needed). And has kept me straight this AEP.

She just laid down her clippers and hairdryer to help out with MeadorCare. She was a Hairdresser a few months ago. She asked what she could to help me and I turned the phone over to her that day, and she has not looked back since.

So thank you for welcoming officially to the MeadorCare Team.

She is much nicer anyway and people have already started asking for Polly because they are tired of talk to Steve.

Thanks babe you are doing a great job!!!

Where do we go from here, is the beginning of the end of Health Insurance.

No, but this may be the beginning of a different type of health insurance.

The main problem is Govt is under funding almost of Medicare and Marketplace plans, we may have a resolution within the first quarter but we still are not sure.

One possible solution is using Risk Aversion in rating a health insurance plan, letting those who should have lower usage to qualify for a lower premium. While not always fair, it would be more fair than it is currently. For example would be willing to submit your DMV records, with a statement from your Dr to get a 20% discount in premium. Almost all other types of insurance lower premiums for people less likely to file a claim, just an idea. Alternately, government may need to continue to pay a higher amount to lower costs for Medicare and Marketplace.

And just an aside, you could make the argument that Marketplace/ACA/Obamacare is under 65 Medicare.

It wasn't for lack of trying,

I have been writing this for weeks, sorry but all these insurance changes kept me pretty busy.

“Do You Qualify for Extra Help?”

Hi humans, it’s Ralphie the Dog again — your friendly MeadorCare office dog, here to explain important stuff because Steve can’t wag his tail while he talks.

Let’s talk Extra Help — the program that makes your prescriptions way cheaper.

🐾 Who qualifies?

Basically, if your income isn’t super high, you might get it.

Here’s the simple version, Ralphie-style:

• If you’re single and make around $23,000 or less a year, you could qualify.

• If you’re married and make around $31,000 or less, you could qualify.

(There are rules about savings too, but don’t worry — Steve handles the math so I don’t have to count on my paws.)

🐾 Why should you care?

Because Extra Help lowers your:

• Premiums

• Deductibles

• Pharmacy copays

Translation: more money for snacks… and bills, I guess.

🐾 Not sure if you qualify?

Just call MeadorCare.
Steve checks this stuff faster than I chase squirrels.
And trust me — that’s fast.

Okay, that’s enough people talk.
Time for a nap.

— Ralphie 🐾

MeadorCare Core Values

MeadorCare isn’t just an agency — it’s a movement to fix confusing insurance.