For those impacted, this could mean higher out-of-network costs or even the loss of access to Mayo Clinic altogether. It’s a significant change that underscores why it’s so important to review your plan annually and understand your healthcare options before open enrollment.

So, why is this happening? Like many hospitals, Mayo Clinic has faced rising costs and lower reimbursements from private insurance companies. Humana has argued that Mayo’s care costs are too high, while Mayo has stated that the reimbursement terms offered by Medicare Advantage plans simply don’t align with the quality of care and time they dedicate to each patient. In short, the relationship between major hospitals and insurance companies is strained — and Mayo isn’t the only one rethinking its network participation.

Other top medical centers have already taken similar steps. Johns Hopkins, for example, only accepts its own Medicare Advantage plan. MD Anderson has partial participation, requiring patients to verify each plan individually. Cleveland Clinic is one of the few large systems still accepting a wide range of Advantage plans, including dual eligible options.

These changes highlight a growing divide between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) coverage. Medicare Advantage plans often come with low or zero monthly premiums, but they operate like traditional HMOs or PPOs — you’re limited to network doctors, and costs can quickly add up with copays, deductibles, and maximum out-of-pocket limits that can reach $10,000 a year. In contrast, supplemental plans work alongside Original Medicare. They do require a premium, but they allow you to see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare — including Mayo Clinic and other major hospitals.

If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan today and want to maintain access to Mayo Clinic, there are ways to switch. If you’ve been enrolled in an Advantage plan for less than 12 months, you can revert to Original Medicare and add a supplemental plan without medical underwriting. Similarly, if your plan is discontinued — or your provider leaves your network — you generally have a 60-day window to make the switch without answering medical questions. However, outside these windows, moving from an Advantage plan to a supplemental plan typically requires underwriting, which can make approval more difficult if you have health issues.

For many people, this shift reinforces the long-term benefits of Medicare Supplemental Plans, especially Plan G and Plan N. These plans are standardized by the government, which means coverage is consistent regardless of the insurance company offering it. Plan G remains the most comprehensive, while Plan N offers slightly lower premiums — usually about $40–$50 less per month — in exchange for small copays. Supplemental plans also pay providers faster, reduce administrative hassles, and offer greater flexibility, making them an excellent choice for those who value freedom of care.

During Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period — from October 15th to December 7th each year — you can shop for other Advantage plans or explore switching to a supplemental plan. It’s critical to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter, which arrives each October, to see how your plan’s network, premiums, and out-of-pocket limits are changing. This letter often provides the first warning that your doctor, specialist, or hospital may no longer be covered in the coming year.

For those looking for extra protection, Critical Illness Plans can serve as a valuable safety net. These plans typically cost around $25–$30 per month and provide a lump-sum payout — often between $10,000 and $30,000 — if you’re diagnosed with a serious condition like cancer, stroke, or heart attack. The funds can be used for travel, lodging, or personal expenses that Medicare may not cover.

The bottom line is this: when it comes to your healthcare, knowledge and timing are everything. Mayo Clinic’s decision is a reminder that the healthcare landscape is always evolving — and your insurance plan needs to evolve with it. Take time to review your plan, understand your coverage, and advocate for yourself. Whether you choose Medicare Advantage or a supplemental plan, the goal is the same — to ensure you always have access to the care you need, when and where you need it most.

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