Medicare Changes Could Impact Greene County Residents
by Greene County Medical Center - October 23, 2026
JEFFERSON, Iowa – More than 87,000 Iowa Medicare recipients have been notified that their current Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan will not be available in 2027, including an estimated 565 in Greene County.
Several plans affected locally include Wellmark Blue Medicare Advantage PPO and Advantage Valor PPO, Aetna SliverScript Choice, Humana Full Access PPO, and Medica Advantage Preferred, Select, Solution and Value PPOs. Aetna Medicare Signature, Signature Extra, and Elite plans will also no longer be offered in Greene County. (Log on to shiip.iowa.gov for a full listing.)
Medicare Open Enrollment is underway now through December 7, giving recipients an opportunity to review coverage and compare plans for the coming year. Greene County Medical Center connects residents with local SHIIP counselors for a free, unbiased service that helps recipients understand their coverage and compare available plans. Counseling appointments are available during Open Enrollment by calling 515-386-2114.
"It’s more important than ever that Iowa Medicare recipients open and read mail from their Medicare plan to understand changes to their coverage and explore their 2027 options," said Kristin Griffith, Iowa’s SHIIP-SMP Director. "SHIIP-SMP is stepping up to empower Iowans with the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to find coverage that best serves them at the lowest possible cost."
Important dates to remember:
- December 7, 2026 – Medicare Open Enrollment ends
- December 31, 2026 – Recipients whose plans are ending should have replacement coverage in place by this date to avoid a gap in coverage
- February 28, 2027 – Special Enrollment Period deadline noted for plan cancellations
Some Medicare recipients whose Medicare Advantage plans are ending may qualify for guaranteed-issue rights, allowing them to purchase certain Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies without medical underwriting. Eligibility and availability depend on individual circumstances.
"Having the ability to switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare with guaranteed issue is a rare opportunity that isn't typically available to Medicare Advantage enrollees," Griffith noted. "It is vital for Iowans to weigh all their options given these significant changes."
For additional information:
- Greene County Medical Center SHIIP Counselors at 515-386-2114
- 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) Available 24/7