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2026 Open Enrollment: Fewer Options, Higher Costs for Seniors

10/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Open enrollment for 2026 plans began on October 15.
Rochester-area plans offer three insurers for 2026—Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Humana, and Medica—down from five in 2025.
UCare’s exit affected 158,000 seniors, resulting in higher premiums and reduced benefits.
Humana will be out-of-network with Mayo Clinic starting January 1, 2026.
Beneficiaries such as the Hendricks couple face higher costs and limited options.

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Story summary

Open enrollment for 2026 plans began on October 15.
Rochester-area plans offer three insurers for 2026—Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Humana, and Medica—down from five in 2025.
UCare’s exit affected 158,000 seniors, resulting in higher premiums and reduced benefits.
Humana will be out-of-network with Mayo Clinic starting January 1, 2026.
Beneficiaries such as the Hendricks couple face higher costs and limited options.