#United States #Medicare Advantage #Springfield #Essence Healthcare #Healthcare Plans

Essence Healthcare Launches 2026 Medicare Advantage Options

Essence Healthcare has officially announced its new Medicare Advantage plans for the year 2026, catering to the needs of seniors in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Building on over twenty years of experience in the healthcare sector, Essence remains a trusted provider for individuals seeking Medicare coverage, ensuring that beneficiaries enjoy access to quality care along with stability.

Enrollment Period and Eligibility

The upcoming Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, and over 253,000 Medicare beneficiaries in the designated areas are eligible to enroll in an Essence plan during this time. Jordan Reigel, the President of Essence Healthcare, highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to delivering reliable and affordable healthcare options to its members. Reigel stated, "Our 2026 plans reflect our ongoing commitment, giving members access to a trusted network of providers, affordable options, and benefits that support their health."

Enhanced Benefits for 2026

The new plans provide a robust selection of benefits aimed at enhancing the overall health and wellness of their members. Some of the key features of the plans include:

• - Comprehensive Drug Coverage: Beneficiaries will enjoy improved coverage for prescription drugs, including $0 copays for select insulins.
• - Dental Coverage Improvements: A new partnership with LIBERTY Dental brings stronger dental benefits to members, ensuring better oral health is within reach.
• - Flexible Spending Solutions: The inclusion of Flex Cards offers beneficiaries generous options for managing their healthcare expenses.
• - Innovative Wellness Tools: All plans will feature new wellness tools, including the Oura Ring, designed to help members monitor their health effectively.
• - Preventive Services at No Cost: There will be $0 copays for preventive services and primary care appointments, encouraging proactive health management among members.
• - SilverSneakers Program: Fitness programming through SilverSneakers will be available, promoting an active lifestyle for seniors.
• - Over-the-Counter Coverage: The plans will include coverage for over-the-counter items to further empower members in managing their health needs.

Recognized Quality

In recognition of its high-quality services, Essence Healthcare has received accolades from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), achieving a 4.5-star rating or higher for five consecutive years from 2021 to 2025 for its HMO plans. The organization prides itself on being named a “Best Medicare Advantage Plan” by U.S. News & World Report for five successive years, reflecting the trust and satisfaction of its members.

How to Enroll

To enroll in an Essence Healthcare plan, individuals must possess Medicare Parts A and B and reside in the service areas. As the Annual Enrollment Period approaches, prospective members can learn more and sign up by visiting Essence Healthcare's website or by calling 1-866-509-5398 (TTY 711).

About Essence Healthcare

Essence Healthcare is dedicated to providing Medicare health insurance that prioritizes wellness, care coordination, and personal service. With plans designed to include complete hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverage alongside additional benefits not found in Original Medicare, Essence is gaining national recognition for its service quality. The company works in partnership with Lumeris, a leader in population health services and technology, to deliver high-quality healthcare solutions. As of 2026, Essence Healthcare's Medicare Advantage plans will be available in Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Indiana. Enrollment in Essence plans depends on contract renewals and eligibility criteria set forth by Medicare regulations.

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