Having health insurance that meets our unique needs and supports our lifestyles becomes even more important as we age. Right now is an important time to make decisions – especially for those who have Medicare or are helping loved ones who are eligible. During the annual enrollment period through Dec.7, eligible individuals can choose a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan for 2026. With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, so Monique Garman, Director of Provider Engagement,from Humana, offers guidance on researching and choosing a plan.
• What is Medicare and what should people know about selecting a plan for 2026?
Medicare is health insurance for individuals 65 and older or those who are younger and eligible because of a qualifying disability. There are two main types: Original Medicare, which is offered by the government and covers medical bills and doctors’ visits; and Medicare Advantage plansthat are provided by private insurers, like Humana. Medicare Advantage plans include all that Original Medicare does and may also offer additional benefits, such as dental, vision, or hearingcoverage.
• What other benefits come with a Medicare Advantage plan?
With Medicare Advantage, we ensure your covered medical costs, including doctor visits and necessary emergency care, will never go above a maximum out-of-pocket amount, which you know beforehand. Medicare Advantage plans also offer access to large networks of doctors, hospitals and pharmacies, and some even include programs where you can receive rewards for taking certain healthy actions, such as completing preventive screenings. Medicare Advantage plans offer predictable costs and consistent benefits for members, helping them plan for their healthcare needs with confidence. There’s truly a lot to take advantage of with a Medicare Advantage plan.
• How do primary care and preventive care fit into a Medicare Advantage plan?
Primary care is the foundation of good health – it’s where you get regular checkups, manage ongoing health issues, and build a relationship with a provider who understands you and your health history. Despite its importance, a recent survey revealed that more than half of those aged 65 and over are not regularly seeing a primary care provider. Regular checkups and preventive screenings are critical to helping maintain long-term wellness and staying independent for as long as possible. With regular checkups you can get key preventive and diagnostic screenings, such as breast, colorectal, and bone density.
• What are Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans, and who qualifies for them?
Dual eligible means you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. That’s where D-SNPs, or Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans, come in. These are Medicare Advantage plans designed specifically for people with both types of coverage. D-SNPs help coordinate benefits under one plan, making it easier to manage care. These plans often include extra support with things like prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, and help paying for covered over-the-counter items like vitamins, pain relievers and first aid supplies. *Some D-SNP plans also offer support with groceries, utilities, rent and more if you have an eligible chronic condition that meets certain criteria.
• Chicago has a large population of veterans. Do their VA benefits work with Medicare?
You can keep your VA benefits and still enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. In fact, the VAencourages eligible veterans to enroll in Medicare even when they receive VA healthcare benefits. Having a Medicare Advantage plan provides access to a wider network of doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals, offering the flexibility to receive care outside the VA when it’s more convenient. You can see providers closer to home, avoid long wait times, or get care when traveling. Medicare Advantage plans can also help fill in the gaps when VA care isn’t available or practical. Even if you’re at a VA-authorized facility, Medicare Advantage plans may cover services the VA does not.
Between now and Dec. 7, it is essential that you carefully review your options and consider what makes the most sense for you, your lifestyle, and your healthcare needs, so you can enter 2026 with confidence and focus on living life to the fullest.
For more information, visit Humana.com/MedicareBasics.
Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization. Humana is also a Dual Eligible Special Needs HMO SNP, PPO SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal.
*This spending allowance is a special program for members with specific health conditions. Qualifying conditions include diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders, chronic and disabling mental health conditions, chronic lung disorders, or chronic heart failure, among others. Some plans require at least two conditions and other requirements apply. See the plan’s Evidence of Coverage for details. If you use this program for rent or utilities, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires it to be reported as income if you seek assistance. Contact your local HUD office if you have questions.
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