Episodes

  • What Medicare star ratings mean and the importance of preventive care

    What Medicare star ratings mean and the importance of preventive care
    Oct 20 2025
    In this episode, hosts Patrice King Brown and Stacy Smith are joined by Ally Thomas, AVP of Quality Improvement at UPMC Health Plan, to explain how Medicare uses a five-star rating system to measure the quality of Medicare Advantage plans. Listeners will learn how ratings are determined, why they matter, and how preventive care plays a vital role in both plan quality and long-term health. Plus, Ally shares how members can earn rewards for completing important screenings—and why an annual wellness visit is one of the best things you can do for your health. Find more information at upmchp.us/ftr-2025ep5
    Show More Show Less
    11 mins
  • Whole-person care with Medicare Advantage plans

    Whole-person care with Medicare Advantage plans
    Oct 27 2025
    In this episode, hosts Patrice King Brown and Stacy Smith talk with Cynthia Lentz, AVP of Care Management and Clinical Business Operations at UPMC Health Plan, about what it means to receive whole-person care through a Medicare Advantage plan. Cynthia explains how UPMC for Life supports members beyond basic medical needs—helping them access care coordination, extra benefits, and services that promote emotional, social, and physical well-being. You’ll learn how Medicare Advantage plans help members live healthier, more supported lives through personalized care and a wide range of wellness programs. Find more information at upmchp.us/ftr-2025ep6
    Show More Show Less
    15 mins
  • How Medicare Advantage plans provide extra support for veterans

    How Medicare Advantage plans provide extra support for veterans
    Nov 3 2025
    In this special edition of “Medicare for the Record,” hosts Patrice King Brown and Stacy Smith speak with Chris Preffer, Director of Program Innovation and Improvement at UPMC Health Plan and a 22-year Air Force veteran. Chris breaks down how Medicare Advantage plans work alongside VA benefits, TRICARE For Life, and CHAMPVA to offer veterans more flexibility, extra benefits, and reduced out-of-pocket costs. He also clears up common misunderstandings about eligibility and coverage and offers practical advice for veterans considering a Medicare Advantage plan. Find more information at upmchp.us/ftr-2025ep7
    Show More Show Less
    7 mins
  • Extra benefits to look for in a Medicare Advantage plan

    Extra benefits to look for in a Medicare Advantage plan
    Nov 10 2025
    In the final episode of “Medicare for the Record,” hosts Patrice King Brown and Stacy Smith sit down with Katie Rombach, Director of Program Management for Medicare at UPMC Health Plan, to unpack the extra benefits that many Medicare Advantage plans offer. From dental and vision to gym memberships, allowances for over-the-counter products, caregiver support, and even healthy food and utility help—these benefits can make a real difference for members’ health and budgets. Katie also shares how to compare plans and what to consider before enrolling. Find more information at upmchp.us/ftr-2025ep8
    Show More Show Less
    10 mins