The Inside Connection Podcast

Lance O'Brien and Sean Horn

Medicare Made Simple.

  1. Countdown to Coverage: Navigating Medicare’s Annual Enrollment

    10/21/2025

    Countdown to Coverage: Navigating Medicare’s Annual Enrollment

    Countdown to Coverage:Navigating Medicare's annual enrollment Host: Lance O’Brien (CEO, MediConnect) Guest: Alexie Auth (CMO, Andocia) Episode summary  AEP is here—and this year brings more changes than most. Lance and Alexie break down why so many Medicare beneficiaries are seeing plan changes (including Service Area Reductions), what the Inflation Reduction Act means for drug costs in 2026, and how to approach your annual review so you don’t lose coverage or overpay. What you’ll learn AEP, simplified: What the Annual Enrollment Period is (Oct 15–Dec 7) and when changes take effect (Jan 1). Why plans are changing: A convergence of higher utilization, rising prescription demand, and lower-than-expected reimbursements has led to larger-than-usual service area reductions (SARs) in many regions. 2026 drug-price shifts: Part D price negotiations begin with high-impact meds (e.g., common blood thinners and diabetes/heart failure drugs), which can significantly lower member out-of-pocket costs next year. Takeaway This AEP is a reset. With bigger-than-usual adjustments across plans, a guided review can protect your doctors, trim drug costs, and keep your coverage seamless into the new year.  Learn how MediConnect helps you: Understand AEP (Oct 15–Dec 7) and avoid coverage lapses if your plan is ending Review your medications, doctors, and benefits so you’re comparing true information Navigate premium and deductible changes (especially on standalone drug plans) Prepare for 2026 Part D drug negotiations that may lower costs for common high-cost meds Get unbiased guidance across multiple carriers - in person, by phone, or online You don’t have to do this alone — and you shouldn’t. A one-hour review can protect your doctors, rein in drug costs, and keep your coverage seamless into the new year. Website:  Call Us: 888-818-MEDI (6334) Social Networks:  LinkedIn: / mediconnect-insurance  Facebook: / mediconnectpgh  Instagram: / mediconnect-insurance

    36 min

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