September 28, 2025
Hi!
🍁 Welcome to the September 2025 edition of Trust Truman — your guide to health, wellness and Medicare! With Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) beginning October 15, this special edition is designed to help you feel informed, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
As we look ahead to 2026, several important Medicare updates will impact enrollees. The standard Part B premium is expected to increase from $185 to $206.50 and the Part B deductible will rise from $257 to $288. Additionally, the annual out-of-pocket cap for prescription drugs will increase from $2,000 to $2,100.
I anticipate seeing some significant change across Medicare plans this year. In this edition, you’ll find important next steps based on your current plan type, so please read carefully. These updates may affect your costs, coverage, and available options. And if you want a deeper look at what’s driving these shifts, be sure to check out my latest blog, Tara’s Medicare Outlook: What’s on the Horizon for 2026 (linked below), where I break down key trends, reforms, and what I expect to see in the year ahead. Let’s dive in!
🧭 AEP 2025: IMPORTANT UPDATES & NEXT STEPS
As we approach Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), I want to take a moment to share some important updates and ensure you have the best coverage for 2026.
AEP runs from October 15 through December 7. During this time, you can review, compare, and make changes to your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year. Changes made during AEP go into effect on January 1, 2026. While an annual review isn’t always necessary, this year brings some notable changes and for many enrollees, reviewing your coverage will be essential. Please read below for important next steps based on your situation.
⚠️ ACTION NEEDED FOR THOSE ENROLLED IN UPMC PPO RX CHOICE, HIGHMARK DISTINCT, OR HIGHMARK PREMIER
If you are currently enrolled in UPMC for Life PPO Rx Choice, Highmark Distinct or Highmark Premier, it is imperative that we meet to review your 2026 options as these plans are undergoing significant changes. By now, you should’ve received a letter from me regarding the need for a plan review. If you have not done so yet, please complete the forms that were included in the letter and return them to me as soon as possible:
✅ Scope of Appointment Form (SOA)
✅ Physician & Rx List
✅ Appointment Preference Form
Return by mail to Care Compass, 1644 Plank Road, Duncansville, PA 16635, or email to Admin@CareCompassPA.com. Once your forms are received, I will reach out with your appointment date and time. YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR FROM ME IN THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF OCTOBER.
🏥 FOR THOSE ENROLLED IN ANOTHER MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN
If you are enrolled in another Medicare Advantage plan, please review the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) carefully when it arrives from your carrier (end of September). If your plan’s 2026 changes look acceptable and you feel confident staying enrolled, there is no need to meet; your enrollment in the plan will continue into 2026.
However, if you’re unsure, have questions, or want to explore your options, I’m here to help. If you would like to schedule a plan review, please complete the documents that were included in the letter that was sent to you: Scope of Appointment Form (SOA), Physician & Rx List, and Appointment Preference Form.
Return by mail to Care Compass, 1644 Plank Road, Duncansville, PA 16635 or email to Admin@CareCompassPA.com. Once your forms are received, I will reach out with your appointment date and time. YOU CAN EXPECT TO HEAR FROM ME IN THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF OCTOBER.
💊 FOR THOSE ENROLLED IN A MEDIGAP (SUPPLEMENT) + PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLAN (PDP)
If you’re enrolled in a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan, your medical coverage coverage is NOT impacted by the Annual Enrollment Period. However, your standalone prescription drug plan (PDP) may see some changes in 2026. In late October, I’ll be sending a step-by-step video guide (via email and text) that will walk you through how to review your medications and compare plans using Medicare.gov. Be sure to watch for it, and if you need further help, just reach out!
✨TIMELY TOPICS
TARA’S MEDICARE OUTLOOK: WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR 2026
As an independent Medicare broker, I stay closely connected to the latest industry changes and regulations. While no one can predict the future with certainty, my goal is to keep you informed so you can feel confident making decisions about your health and benefits heading into next year. In my latest blog, I’m sharing my outlook on Medicare in 2026 and offering guidance on how enrollees can prepare for changes in coverage, costs, and prescription drugs.
🔔 REMINDER: DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS!
As we move into the final months of 2025, it’s a great time to check in on your Medicare Advantage plan’s supplemental benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness services. These extras are designed to support your overall health and well-being, but many enrollees forget to take full advantage of them before the year ends. Be sure to review your plan’s benefits and schedule any appointments or services you may need so you don’t miss out! These benefits DO NOT roll over into next year, so be sure to use them now!
🌎 COMMUNITY
Tara, joined by her son Trey, at “Medicare Mornings at Parlor”
Tara testing out the forklift at Macdemid Alpha Employee Benefits Fair
Tara standing outside of Reliance Bank where she conducted a seminar for employees approaching Medicare eligibility
🤓 QUICK READS & FUN FINDS
Did you know? Laughter lowers stress hormones and boosts your immune system.
Travel from Your Armchair: Take a virtual tour of the Louvre Museum in Paris from the comfort of your home!
Get Creative: Check out these free printable adult coloring pages! Great for relaxation and focus.
💡 INSIGHTS
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." — C.S. Lewis
Reviews are so important to small businesses! If you’ve been enjoying our newsletter and the continued support we provide, please consider leaving a quick review!
As always, our goal is to keep you informed, empowered, and thriving—whether it’s making the most of your Medicare benefits, staying active and healthy, or simply learning something new. We appreciate you being part of the Trust Truman community!
If you have any questions or topics you’d like us to cover in a future issue, we’d love to hear from you. Until next time—stay well and stay curious!
💙 Tara, Truman, and The Care Compass Team
Tara Saltzburg
Owner, Licensed Insurance Broker Specializing in Medicare and Senior Products
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Care Compass is an independent insurance agency that helps seniors navigate the complexities of Medicare and other Senior Products. Our services are offered at NO COST! Care Compass is proudly owned and operated in Blair County, Pennsylvania. We provide Medicare insurance assistance to the residents of Altoona, Hollidaysburg, Duncansville and the surrounding region. If you need assistance with Medicare, contact Care Compass today!
