Medicare Explained
Empowering You to Choose the Best Path for Your Health
Cozad Community Health System (CCHS) is offering a comprehensive educational series aimed at answering your questions about Medicare coverage and helping you make informed decisions. With Medicare open enrollment starting October 15th and running through December 7th, it’s important to be prepared before the phone calls, letters, and advertisements arrive.
After seeing firsthand how different plans impact our patient population, CCHS is committed to arming the community with the knowledge needed to confidently navigate Medicare decisions. Whether you're advocating for yourself or a loved one, the right choice can make all the difference in accessing the healthcare services you need.
Medicare and Medicare Advantage are often surrounded by confusion, with many individuals unsure of what each plan offers. By attending our educational sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, hear from experts, and make a well-informed decision before open enrollment begins.
Medicare primarily affects individuals aged 65 and older, providing essential health insurance coverage. It helps cover various healthcare services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. Medicare also supports those under 65 with certain disabilities or specific health conditions.
Watch this video to learn more:
Upcoming Educational Events:
On October 2nd and 8th, CCHS employees, along with Great Plains Health CEO, will lead presentations on Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage, focusing on the specific challenges faced in rural health systems. On October 9th, the event will feature a panel discussion, complete with finger foods, including experts from various healthcare fields. Panelists include a a Health Insurance Sales Rep, Nursing Home Administrator, Pharmacists, Medical Equipment Representative, a Physical Therapist and the CCHS Chief Medical Officer. This comprehensive session will offer in-depth explanations of how different healthcare plans affect various aspects of healthcare.
These events are designed to provide you with clear, easy-to-understand information on Medicare coverage options. Whether you’re new to Medicare or reconsidering your current plan, this series aims to empower you to select a healthcare plan that suits your unique needs.
Wednesday, October 2 at Noon, Wilson Public Library – Informational Presentation and Q&A with CCHS & Great Plains Health
Tuesday, October 8 at Noon, Grand Generation Center – Informational Presentation and Q&A with CCHS & Great Plains Health
Wednesday, October 9 at 6 PM, Paulsen’s Conference Room – Panel-Style Discussion, with local and regional experts
CCHS’s educational series is here to help you avoid surprises and arm yourself with the facts. We want to ensure our community members have the tools they need to make informed, confident choices about their health. For more information on the educational series, contact Cozad Community Health System at 308-784-2261 or email CCHS Social Services Coordinator Dranoel Fleharty at [email protected].
Hear From Those With Experience
Two local residents, David Gennrich and Ileane Cook, shared their experiences with Medicare Advantage, highlighting the importance of understanding your options thoroughly before making a decision.
David Gennrich initially switched to Medicare Advantage after receiving a flier that promised benefits the representatives assured him he was entitled to. "I called and asked a lot of questions," Gennrich explained, "but I didn’t really realize what I signed up for." Despite assurances, his Medicare Advantage plan denied multiple claims related to his chronic condition, leading to delays in receiving necessary treatments and concerns about accumulating medical bills. After working with his local doctor to return to traditional Medicare, Gennrich advises others to be cautious. "Depending on your condition, if you are qualified and don’t have chronic conditions, it may work for you," Gennrich acknowledged. "But pay attention and work with someone you trust.”
Similarly, Ileane Cook shared her surprise at learning that her new Medicare Advantage plan didn’t cover the cost of her oxygen supplies. "Someone called me about Medicare Advantage, and I thought there would be more coverage," Cook said. She encourages those considering their Medicare options to talk to someone they trust. "The people who called me made it sound better than it really was."
Both testimonials underscore the importance of seeking reliable advice and fully understanding what different Medicare plans cover. It’s essential to carefully assess your healthcare needs before committing to a plan.