Medicare Resources
Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or reviewing your plan options, our goal is to provide helpful resources and clear guidance tailored to our local community.
Understanding Traditional Medicare
Traditional Medicare is the federal health insurance program available primarily to individuals 65 and older, as well as some people with certain disabilities. It includes:
- Part A – Hospital insurance (inpatient care, skilled nursing, hospice)
- Part B – Medical insurance (doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care)
- Part D – Prescription drug coverage (optional add-on through private insurers)
This program is managed by the federal government and does not involve private insurance companies for the core Parts A and B. It typically allows broader choice of providers with fewer restrictions, but often requires supplemental coverage to help pay for deductibles and co-pays.
Medicare Advantage (Part C): What You Need to Know
Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C) is offered through private insurance companies and replaces Traditional Medicare. These plans must offer the same benefits as Traditional Medicare, but often include extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits.
At Astera Health, about 60% of our Medicare patients are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. While they may offer cost savings and convenience, these plans also come with important considerations, such as:
- Network Restrictions – You may be limited in where you can receive care.
- Prior Authorization – Some services require approval before being covered.
- Plan Variability – Not all plans offer the same benefits or provider access.
- Upcoming Changes – Several insurance providers are discontinuing plans, including UCare, and Astera Health will be out-of-network for Humana starting in 2026.
Get Personalized Help
Choosing a Medicare plan is not one-size-fits-all. What works for a neighbor or family member might not be right for you. That’s why we recommend working with:
- Local, Independent Brokers – They understand the regional market and can help guide your decision.
- Minnesota Aging Pathways (formerly the Senior LinkAge Line®) – A state-sponsored program offering free, unbiased help to older adults and caregivers.
Medicare Annual Wellness Visit vs. Physical Exam
There’s often confusion between a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit and a traditional annual physical. While both are important, they serve different purposes and are covered differently under Medicare.
- Medicare Annual Wellness Visit: A preventive, hands-off visit to review your health history, medications, and plan for preventive screenings. Fully covered by Medicare.
- Annual Physical: A comprehensive head-to-toe exam that may include lab work, physical evaluation, and is often billed through supplemental insurance.