How Minnesotans Can Navigate the Changing Medicare Landscape

AAA offers Medicare expertise for 2025 open enrollment period.

10/15/25 | Insurance

MINNEAPOLIS (October 15, 2025) — As Medicare Open Enrollment begins this month, Minnesotans face unique challenges this year as many insurers make changes to their coverage areas or product offerings. UCare’s withdrawal from the Minnesota market and other insurers leaving less profitable areas have led to nearly 200,000 Minnesotans navigating the open enrollment period with uncertainty and confusion as they hope to find a new Medicare plan that fits their needs.

“We know the changes in our Medicare landscape this year can feel daunting,” said Abel Ebane, Health Insurance expert at AAA. “We encourage you to talk to a local agent who understands the market, can help explain your options, and will find the plan that works best for you.”

I am not familiar with Medicare, what should I know?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the U.S. for people age 65 and older, and younger people with certain disabilities. It covers Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.

Covers hospital stays, nursing facility care, and some home care.

Covers doctor’s visits, outpatient care, preventative services, and medical equipment.

Private health insurance plans approved by Medicare that offer Parts A + B, with other services and often Part D.

Prescription drug coverage.

Minnesotans can get original Medicare with some add-ons through Parts A and B, alongside some supplemental coverage. You can opt for Part C, known as Medicare Advantage – comprehensive plans covering everything from dental visits to fitness memberships, and offered by private insurance companies. Part D, meanwhile, will cover your prescription drug costs.

My plan has been impacted, where do I start? 

Talk to your local agent. Agents have expertise in the current market and can help you navigate the next steps in choosing a new plan. AAA recommends finding your new plan by focusing on suitability, simplicity, and reliability.

“Our agents aren’t tied to a carrier, we find the plan that works best for you and your life,” said Ebane. “We’re here to make this experience easier for you and to share our Medicare expertise.” Once you’ve enrolled and begin your new plan, agents can support you along the way when you have questions.

AAA Medicare Advantage Quick Facts

• AAA agents are licensed to sell Advantage, Supplemental, Prescription Drug, and Cost plans during the Medicare Open Enrollment period (October 15—December 7). We support our members with Medicare Parts A and B enrollment.
• Our agents advise plans based on suitability, simplicity, and reliability.
• AAA is carrier agnostic – we help you find the best plan and always put our members first.
• Leaving an Advantage plan for a Cost plan is not easy to navigate alone. Our local agents are poised to support you with confidence. Cost plans are available to people in the counties listed below.

Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Goodhue, Itasca, Kanabec, Koochiching, Lake, Le Sueur, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Pine, Pipestone, Rice, Rock, Sibley, St. Louis, Stevens, Traverse, Yellow Medicine counties.

What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare is primarily health insurance for people 65 and older, and Medicaid coverage is for individuals, families, and children with limited income and resources.

I’m not 65 yet, should I begin preparing?

Anyone turning 65 this year or in the future can benefit from the expertise of a licensed insurance agent. Agents can walk through the Medicare enrollment process from start to finish, so you never have to navigate the process alone.

“If Medicare Open Enrollment seems confusing, don’t fret: Your insurance agent will take the time to get to know you and your needs, and can help you out,” Abel said. “If you don’t have an insurance agent, we can help you find one you can trust at AAA.com/Insurance.”