Annual Enrollment 2026

This change was made with significant consideration and evaluation. By accepting select Medicare Advantage plans, we can ensure that the plans we partner with truly support better outcomes, reduce unnecessary barriers and align with our mission of exceptional care.

A growing number of people in our communities are reaching Medicare age, making it even more important than ever that we have a sustainable, coordinated approach that allows us to provide the safe, seamless and personal care our patients deserve and that our clinicians want to deliver. By focusing on a smaller number of Medicare Advantage partners, we will be better positioned to meet the needs of our patients. Our partner plans share our commitment to providing an exceptional, personalized experience for our patients and rewarding providers who help patients improve their health, manage their chronic diseases and live healthier lives.

Your existing 2025 Medicare Advantage plan will not be affected by this change, and you can continue to see your NKC Health providers through the end of 2025 as usual. We are communicating this change in advance so you can begin understanding your options prior to enrolling in your 2026 plan during Medicare's annual enrollment, October 15 - December 7, 2025.

No. As the number of Medicare patients participating in Medicare Advantage plans increases — alongside the growing variety of MA plans and products offered — patients and healthcare providers nationwide face challenges. Medicare Advantage was once considered a reliable coverage option. Over time, denials, pre-authorization requirements and administrative delays have created obstacles for patients. NKC Health continually evaluates all Medicare Advantage plans to ensure alignment with our mission of providing patients access to exceptional care.

This change was made with significant consideration and evaluation. By accepting select Medicare Advantage plans, we can ensure that the plans we partner with truly support better outcomes, reduce unnecessary barriers and align with our mission of exceptional care.
 

Changes to your health plan should be made during the Medicare annual enrollment period that runs October 15 – December 7, 2025. These changes to your health plan will be effective January 1, 2026.

Out-of-network refers to a healthcare provider who does not accept a particular health insurance plan. If you use an out-of-network provider you will likely have higher out-of-pocket costs or have limited coverage, depending on your plan.

Original or traditional Medicare is healthcare operated and funded by the federal government. It is a health insurance program for ages 65 or older, or for younger people with certain medical conditions or disabilities who qualify under government rules. Typically, traditional Medicare pays for 80% of covered healthcare costs and patients pay the remaining 20%. Traditional Medicare does not cover most prescription drug costs or vision, dental, hearing, or long-term nursing home health needs.

Medicare Advantage plans are Medicare-approved plans from private companies offering an alternative to traditional Medicare for health and drug coverage. Medicare Advantage plans include Medicare-covered services and may include benefits not covered by Medicare, such as dental, vision, hearing, and alternative care.

Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is a personal decision, and each patient needs to assess their unique health needs. To explore traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage insurance options accepted by NKC Health:

• Talk to your broker about your options during the annual enrollment period (AEP) starting October 15. Switching to a Medicare Advantage plan that NKC Health accepts, or traditional Medicare, will help you avoid higher out-of-pocket costs and ensure continued access to your preferred providers. NKC Health will accept the following plans in 2026:
  • Medicare
  • Medicare Supplement Plans
  • Humana Medicare Advantage

For more information, please continue to visit this website or call our dedicated contact center at (833) 354-4422.