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UnitedHealth plans to drop Medicare coverage in 140 counties and exit Wyoming

Good morning. The biggest news for older Americans today is about Medicare coverage. UnitedHealth Group says it will drop Medicare plans in 140 counties and leave the state of Wyoming entirely. For people in those areas, this could mean finding a new plan. If you are affected, it helps to review your options carefully during open enrollment.

There is more Medicare news in Washington. Senate Democrats introduced a bill, called "Medicare at 50," that would let Americans aged 50 and older buy into Medicare. The government also issued 200 new Medicare-funded doctor-training slots to teaching hospitals. In Iowa, the state Insurance Division is offering a free webinar on Medicare changes and 2027 plans.

Care and safety stories round out the day. A watchdog report found county hospitals recouped $205 million in Medicaid money meant for nursing homes. And eleven people were charged in a $38,000 theft scheme that targeted six senior living residents.