Alcoa Employees: Is It Time to Reevaluate Your Medicare Plan This Enrollment Season?

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Alcoa Alcoa has partnered with several healthcare plans to provide its employees with benefits, primarily utilizing the services of major health insurance providers. For many employees, Alcoa's health coverage encompasses offerings from companies like Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna, focusing on comprehensive coverage options that include medical, dental, and vision plans. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Alcoa in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, primarily driven by increases in ACA marketplace premiums. Nationally, insurers are requesting median premium hikes of approximately 20%, with individual states seeing increases as high as 66%. The expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies adds further pressure, potentially leading to a staggering 75% increase in out-of-pocket costs for many enrollees. For Alcoa employees, these factors will likely mean a reevaluation of healthcare spending and strategic planning to mitigate escalating out-of-pocket expenses in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'Alcoa employees should recognize that thoughtful Medicare decisions during annual enrollment can help align health care needs with long-term retirement goals, and taking the time to reassess options is essential,' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Alcoa employees who take the time to review their Medicare options during annual enrollment can better align their health care choices with their personal retirement goals,' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

1. Key Medicare decisions that Alcoa employees and retirees face during annual enrollment.

2. Common reasons to review and change Medicare plans.

3. How The Retirement Group can assist with Medicare and retirement planning.

Navigate Medicare Annual Enrollment with Confidence

From October 15 to December 7, Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) allows Alcoa employees to enroll in, change, or discontinue Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. Any updates you make will take effect on January 1 of the following year.

Because Medicare plans may adjust provider networks, prescription drug lists, costs, and coverage every year, Alcoa retirees should review their benefits during AEP.

Why Reviewing Your Medicare Plan Matters

You may hear recommendations from friends or see Medicare advertisements. What matters most is whether your plan:

• - Includes your preferred doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions

• - Fits your current health and financial needs

If your health situation has changed or costs have risen, it may be time to reassess your plan. AEP gives Alcoa retirees the opportunity to make adjustments if you are no longer satisfied with your plan.

Common Reasons to Update Medicare Coverage

Alcoa employees may consider changes if:

• - Your current plan has become too expensive

• - The plan does not support updated medical needs

• - Prescription drug costs have increased

• - Network doctors or specialists are hard to access

• - You want simpler coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan that may combine Parts A, B, and D

Review Annual Notices from Your Plan Provider

Each September, insurers send an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) outlining updates for the coming year, including changes to costs, provider networks, or prescription coverage. If your plan becomes more restrictive or expensive, consider exploring alternatives during AEP.

Medicare Plan Options

Helpful Medicare Reminders

• - Medicare Part B covers many preventive services, including screenings, vaccines, and yearly wellness visits.

• - Part A covers medically necessary hospital stays, although deductibles and coinsurance may apply.

• - Provider-ordered lab tests are covered by Part B with no cost sharing; Medicare Advantage plans may have plan-specific rules.

• - Medigap changes may require medical underwriting unless you qualify for guaranteed issue rights.

  - Medicare provides individual coverage—there are no joint or family plans.

• - A lifetime Part D late enrollment penalty may apply if you go 63+ days without creditable prescription coverage.

• - If no action is taken during AEP, your current plan typically renews for the following year if it remains available.

Need Help Reviewing Your Options?

Making Medicare decisions each year is an important part of retirement planning for Alcoa employees. Reviewing your plan can help determine if it still supports your health care needs and financial situation.

The Retirement Group can help you review your Medicare and retirement options. Call us at  (800) 900-5867  for assistance.

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Sources:

1. Medicare & You 2026. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2025, pp. 62, 70–71, 79–81, 83–85. PDF file.

2. Pugh, Tony, et al.  “Medicare Open Enrollment: Compare Plans and Changes.”  AARP , updated 2025,  www.aarp.org/medicare/open-enrollment-action-plan/ .

3. Fidelity Viewpoints.  “Medicare Enrollment: Time to Change Plans?”  Fidelity Investments , 1 Oct. 2025,  www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement/medicare-enrollment-plans .

4. National Council on Aging (NCOA).  “ Understanding Medicare's Late Enrollment Penalties .”  National Council on Aging , 10 Apr. 2025.

5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  “Adult Vaccination Insurance and Payment Resources.”  CDC , 9 Aug. 2024,  www.cdc.gov/vaccines-adults/hcp/adult-payment-insurance-resources/index.html .