Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital
At Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, we care about more than just your health—we care about helping you make the best choices for your future. One of the biggest decisions many of our patients face is choosing the right Medicare coverage. With the Medicare Open Enrollment period coming up (October 15 – December 7), now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your options.
Why This Matters for You
We want you to know that PVCH is not contracted with most Medicare Advantage plans. This means that if you have one of these plans, our hospital and providers may be considered out-of-network, which could mean higher costs for your care.
That’s why it’s so important to review your Medicare plan now—so you can make sure it works for your health needs and your budget.
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare: What’s the Difference?
- Medicare Advantage plans are run by private insurance companies. They cover the basics of Medicare but often add extras like dental, vision, or wellness programs. Some even include perks like gym memberships. But there are trade-offs—these plans usually limit you to a smaller network of doctors and hospitals, and sometimes require approval before you can get certain services. In rural communities like ours, this can make it harder to get the care you need when you need it.
- Original Medicare is run by the federal government and gives you much more flexibility. You can see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare, which means fewer delays and more options for your care.
Looking Beyond the Price Tag
It’s easy to be drawn to the lower monthly premiums of some Medicare Advantage plans. But keep in mind—those lower premiums don’t always mean lower costs overall. Things like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles can add up quickly. In fact, studies show that many people with Medicare Advantage actually end up paying more for hospital stays than those on Original Medicare.
We’re Here to Help You Decide
Choosing a plan can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Helpful resources are available to guide you:
- Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK): Free, unbiased advice to help you understand your Medicare options.
- Your insurance agent: A trusted local resource who can walk you through the details.
- Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE: Official tools to compare plans and get answers.
At Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, our goal is to keep you healthy and make sure you feel confident about your coverage. Take time this fall to review your options, ask questions, and choose the plan that works best for you and your family.
If you need assistance, please call Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) at 620-225-8230 or attend the free community event on October 6 at 6:30 PM at the Larned Community Center, which will explain the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
Your health matters—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
