In Good Company Podcast: Age Better

We’re joined by Dr. Ruth Ann Wood-Humiston and Gabriel “Gabe” Humiston from Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, Ltd. — a trusted, family-owned funeral home in Springfield, Missouri serving families with “Tender Moments – Tender Care” since 1989. Dr. Ruth Ann, a second-generation owner and licensed funeral director with over 35 years of experience, continues the compassionate legacy started by her parents. Her son, Gabe Humiston, now the general manager, proudly represents the third generation carrying forward the family’s mission of care, integrity, and community service. In this episode, we talk about: The family legacy behind Walnut Lawn Funeral Home and its guiding philosophy of “Tender Moments – Tender Care.” The importance of pre-planning funerals and how it eases emotional and financial stress for loved ones. How pre-need arrangements and payment options can help families prepare with peace of mind. Ways Walnut Lawn helps families create meaningful, personalized services that honor every life uniquely. How faith, community, and compassion play a vital role in the grieving and healing process. And the growing importance of education and technology in modern funeral care. Whether you’ve never thought about funeral pre-planning or are in the process of making arrangements, this conversation offers comfort, clarity, and practical guidance on preparing for one of life’s most profound moments. 💐 About Walnut Lawn Funeral Home Founded in 1989 by the DeGraffenreid-Wood family, Walnut Lawn Funeral Home has become one of Springfield’s most trusted funeral and cremation providers. With a commitment to honoring every life with dignity and compassion, their team offers personalized funeral, cremation, memorial, and pre-need services — including Cherished Pets Funeral Home, a dedicated division for pet loss and remembrance. 📍 Location: 2001 W. Walnut Lawn St., Springfield, MO 65807 🌐 www.walnutlawnfuneralhome.com 📞 (417) 886-6127

Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement (Medigap) — what’s the real difference, and which one actually protects you when life takes an unexpected turn? In this episode of In Good Company, we break down the fine print that could save you thousands of dollars — and a whole lot of stress. Financial advisor Paul Morrison joins host Spencer Ernst to unpack: 💡 Why Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans (like Plan G or Plan N) are two completely different systems 💡 The hidden trade-offs behind “$0 premium” plans 💡 What questions you MUST ask before enrolling 💡 How to protect your future self from surprise medical bills 💡 The human side of healthcare — how your values, not just your budget, should guide your choice Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping a loved one, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to make an informed Medicare decision. #medicare2026 #medicareadvantage #medigap #medicaresupplement #plang #planning #originalmedicare #turning65 #medicareenrollment #seniorhealth #healthcaredecisions #healthinsuranceexplained #smartretirement #moneyandhealth #financialwellness #healthcarecosts #retirementplanning #medicaremadesimple

In this special edition of In Good Company, we sit down with Anjanette LaBellarte and Matt Day from the Hospice Foundation for Outreach (HFO) — a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring dignity at life’s end. Together, they share personal and professional insights that redefine what hospice and palliative care truly mean. Matt opens up about surviving cancer and how it reshaped his purpose, while Anjanette reflects on her experience as a caregiver and advocate for compassionate care. We also discuss HFO’s new film, “The Soft Surrender,” a powerful look into love, courage, and connection at life’s final chapter. Highlights: Honest stories about illness, caregiving, and healing. Understanding hospice — separating myth from truth. “The Soft Surrender” documentary and its mission to inspire open conversations about life and death. Practical resources for patients, families, and caregivers. 💡 Learn more about HFO: Website: hospiceoutreach.org Resources: hospiceoutreach.org/resources Film info: hospiceoutreach.org/the-soft-surrender Donate or get involved: hospiceoutreach.org/donate 🎬 Watch, reflect, and share. Join the conversation about hope, dignity, and the beauty of life’s closing chapters.

Traveling doesn’t have to slow down as you age — it just takes a little planning and the right resources! In this video, we’ll cover how seniors can save money on flights, find the best travel deals, and navigate airports stress-free — even with mobility challenges like using a wheelchair, cane, or walker. From booking affordable flights to getting airport assistance and making long trips more comfortable, this guide will help you travel smarter, safer, and more confidently. ✈️ Whether you’re planning your first big trip in years or flying to visit family, you’ll find budget travel tips, accessibility advice, and senior-friendly resources to make your journey easier from start to finish. 🧭 Helpful Resources & Guides U.S. DOT – Traveling with a Disability: https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/traveling-disability?utm_source=chatgpt.com MDA – Air Travel Guide (PDF): https://www.mda.org/sites/default/files/2025/04/MDA-Air-Travel-Guide.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com PVA – Accessible Air Travel Tips: https://pva.org/research-resources/tips-tools-resources/?utm_source=chatgpt.com WheelchairTravel.org – Flying with a Wheelchair: https://wheelchairtravel.org/air-travel/?utm_source=chatgpt.com DOT – Wheelchair & Guided Assistance: https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/wheelchair-and-guided-assistance?utm_source=chatgpt.com AARP – Navigating Airports with Accessibility Needs: https://www.aarp.org/travel/travel-tips/transportation/flying-with-a-disability/?utm_source=chatgpt.com 💡 Travel Tips for Seniors & Passengers with Mobility Needs Before You Fly Contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to request wheelchair or boarding assistance. Use special service request (SSR) codes like WCHR (wheelchair for ramp), WCHS (stairs), or WCHC (cabin seat) when booking. Call TSA Cares (1-855-787-2227) 72 hours before travel to arrange personalized security assistance. Pack medications, documents, and essentials in an easy-to-reach bag. Keep a mobility equipment info sheet with device dimensions, weight, and battery type. Use flight search tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to compare senior discounts and flexible fares. At the Airport Arrive early and self-identify at check-in to confirm assistance. Use airport curbside drop-off zones and request escort services to the gate. During TSA screening, you can request to remain in your wheelchair or receive alternate screening. Take advantage of pre-boarding so you can settle in comfortably. If boarding via an aisle chair, communicate your preferences for transfers. Check if your airport offers a hidden disabilities sunflower lanyard for discreet assistance. In Flight & Arrival Let the flight crew know if you’ll need restroom or deplaning assistance. Ask to have your wheelchair or scooter returned at the gate, not at baggage claim. Take photos of your mobility device before handing it to airline staff. Report any damage immediately to the airline’s Complaints Resolution Official (CRO). Arrange accessible ground transportation (Uber WAV, Lyft Access, or local paratransit) in advance at your destination. Consider travel insurance that covers medical needs and equipment protection — AARP, Allianz, and Travel Guard all offer senior-friendly plans.

The Medicare Part D prescription drug market has changed dramatically — and if you rely on it, you need to know what’s coming next. In this video, I’ll break down why the number of available Part D plans has dropped so sharply, how rising premiums and narrower formularies could impact you, and what new rules (like the $2,100 out-of-pocket cap) mean for your wallet. We’ll also cover: The five biggest changes to expect in 2026 Why some insurance agents can no longer help with Part D enrollment How to use Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder Tool to compare plans and save money When discount programs like GoodRx actually make sense — and when they don’t The Part D market isn’t disappearing, but it’s definitely shrinking — and understanding your options is more important than ever. With the right tools and information, you can still find a plan that works for you. 🧭 Helpful Medicare Part D Resources 🔹 Official Plan Finder: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare 🔹 State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): https://www.shiphelp.org/ 🔹 Medicare Drug Coverage (Part D) Overview: https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d 🔹 GoodRx (Drug Price Comparison Tool): https://www.goodrx.com/ #medicare2026 #medicarepartd #medicare2026 #prescriptiondrugs #medicareplans #drugcoverage #RxSavings #medicareupdates #MedicareNews #seniorhealth #healthcaredecisions #healthinsuranceexplained #moneyandhealth #retirementplanning #financialwellness #healthcarecosts #smartretirement #PharmacySavings #ingoodcompanypodcast #HavenHome #healthcarepodcast #medicaremadesimple #NoSalesPitch

If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility or helping someone who is, this episode is for you. We break down one of the most common and confusing questions: Should you choose Medicare Advantage—or stick with Original Medicare and add a supplement like Plan G or Plan N? In today’s episode, we’ll help you understand: ✅ The real cost differences between Medicare Advantage, Plan G, and Plan N ✅ How copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums actually work ✅ What “excess charges” are—and why most people never see them ✅ Why some people get frustrated with Medicare Advantage (denials, networks, changing benefits) ✅ Why Plan G and Plan N offer predictable, nationwide coverage—and how to decide which fits your budget We’ll also explain how to: 💡 Enroll in Medicare Parts A & B through Social Security 💡 Add drug coverage with a Part D plan 💡 Avoid common enrollment mistakes that can cost you thousands later Whether you’re turning 65 soon or just trying to make sense of your Medicare options, this episode gives you a clear, no-fluff comparison so you can make the best decision for your health and your wallet. 🔗 Helpful Medicare Resources Compare current Medicare plans: https://www.medicare.gov Learn about Medigap coverage: https://www.medicare.gov/supplements-other-insurance/whats-medigap Find Part D drug plans in your area: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare CMS official info: https://www.cms.gov

What does it really mean to walk alongside someone through one of the hardest journeys of their life? In this episode of In Good Company, we sit down with Candi Jordan, a nurse practitioner at Oncology Hematology Associates with more than 24 years of experience caring for cancer patients.

From the moment of diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and even end-of-life care, Candi approaches each patient with deep compassion and advocacy — treating them like family and ensuring they receive equitable, comprehensive support. She shares how oncology care has evolved, the crucial role nurse practitioners play in improving quality of life, and the innovations that are giving patients more hope than ever before. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a caregiver, or someone navigating a cancer diagnosis, this conversation offers invaluable insight into the human side of medicine — and how trust, empathy, and advocacy can make all the difference.

Cancer Resources:

Oncology Hematology Associates

ohaclinic.com

CoxHealth

coxhealth.com/services/cancer-services

Mercy’s CH Chub O'Reilly Cancer Center

mercy.net/practice/mercy-ch-chub-oreilly-cancer-center-springfield/classes-and-support-groups

Cancer Research for the Ozarks

ozarkscancerresearch.org

Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks

bcfo.org

Missouri Cancer Associates

missouricancer.com

American Cancer Society Missouri

cancer.org/about-us/local/missouri.html

The Big Picture: About 69 million Americans are on Medicare. Roughly 52–54% (≈ 37 million people) have Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. In 2026, hundreds of MA plans—especially PPOs—are being eliminated nationwide. Over 1 million enrollees may lose their current plan (≈ 3% of all MA members). UnitedHealth Group , the largest insurer, will drop plans serving more than 600,000 members — mainly PPOs and group MA plans. ⚠️ What This Means If your plan ends, you will not be automatically transferred (“crosswalked”) to a new plan. You must choose a new plan between October 15 and December 31, 2025. If you do nothing, you’ll revert to Original Medicare only (no Advantage benefits, no Part D coverage). Expect new cost controls: referrals, narrower provider networks, premiums added to former $0 plans, new deductibles, and more partnerships with hospital systems. 💡 Why It’s Happening Rising healthcare costs outpacing inflation. Increased use and intensity of care. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) drug-coverage changes (2025) shift more costs to insurers. Competitive bidding pressures and shrinking margins. 📘 See CMS details here: CMS Fact Sheet — Contract Year 2026 Policy & Technical Changes CMS 2026 Medicare Advantage & Part D Advance Notice Fact Sheet 🧭 Your Options Option 1 — Pick a new Medicare Advantage plan. If your plan is not terminated: AEP = Oct 15 – Dec 7. If your plan is terminated: you have until Dec 31 to choose a new MA plan effective Jan 1. Compare benefits and provider networks early. Option 2 — Use Guaranteed Issue (GI) rights to return to Original Medicare + Medigap. GI applies to Medigap plans A, B, C, D, F (pre-2020 eligibility required), and G. Plan N usually requires underwriting. GI window: 60 days before MA ends + 63 days after. Your Medigap coverage can start Jan 1, 2026 to avoid gaps. 🧾 More guidance: Medicare Advantage Rule Changes for 2026 — Plain-English Guide 🗓️ Key Deadlines & Documents September 2025: Look for your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). October 1: Agents can discuss specific plans. October 15 – December 7: Standard Annual Enrollment Period. December 31: Final deadline if your plan is ending. Watch mail for termination notices and follow up letters. 👥 Agent / Broker Notes In 34 states plus DC, insurers don’t have to pay agents for GI cases — so some agents may avoid them. Be aware of potential steering toward Advantage plans (for which compensation exists). Protect your agent relationship: if you call a TV number or enroll directly, you may remove your broker of record. 📰 More context: Why Medicare Advantage Plans Are Ending in 2026 🧩 Checklist & Resources Purpose Link Step-by-step transition guide / plan comparison Checklist for Medicare https://seniorsreports.com/medicare-advantage-plans-2026/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Compare 2026 plans side-by-side: https://www.comparemedicareadvantageplans.org/medicare/medicare-plans-2026/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Consumer education resource (AARP summary) AARP: https://www.aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/info-2026/medicare-advantage-changes.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com Medicare Resources press brief: https://www.medicareresources.org/newsroom/press-releases/what-to-know-about-medicare-changes-before-you-shop-for-a-2026-plan/?utm_source=chatgpt.com 🎯 Bottom Line This episode isn’t anti-Advantage or pro-Medigap — it’s a survival guide. Know the rules, use your GI rights if eligible, and act before December 31, 2025 to avoid coverage gaps.

This week on In Good Company, we’re breaking down the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025 — and what it means for healthcare here in Southwest Missouri and across the country. This sweeping 887-page law reshapes how healthcare is funded and accessed in America. From Medicaid (MO HealthNet) work requirements to shorter enrollment windows on HealthCare.gov, and even new rules affecting Medicare providers and rural hospitals, these changes will touch nearly every Missourian in one way or another. We’ll unpack: How new Medicaid work and reporting requirements will affect MO HealthNet coverage What Marketplace enrollees need to know about shorter deadlines and higher 2026 premiums Why Medicare recipients should watch for possible provider payment cuts How the law aims to stabilize rural hospitals across Missouri Whether you’re in Springfield, Joplin, Ozark, or Ava — these changes will impact local hospitals, clinics, and families alike. Watch to learn what’s coming, what to prepare for, and how to stay covered in 2026. 🩺 Subscribe, like, and leave a 5-star review to stay updated on the biggest changes shaping healthcare here in Missouri and beyond. 🏥 Missouri Health & Medicare Resources 1. MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) 🔗 https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare Apply for or manage Medicaid benefits, check eligibility, and access provider information. 2. Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) 🔗 https://health.mo.gov Official updates on statewide health programs, rural hospital initiatives, and senior care. 3. Missouri SHIP – State Health Insurance Assistance Program 🔗 https://missouriship.org Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for Missouri residents. 4. Missouri Hospital Association (MHA) 🔗 https://web.mhanet.com News and data on hospital policy, rural health initiatives, and local healthcare updates. 5. HealthCare.gov – Marketplace Coverage 🔗 https://www.healthcare.gov Compare Marketplace plans, renew coverage, and track open enrollment dates. 6. Social Security Administration – Medicare Information 🔗 https://www.ssa.gov/medicare Sign up for Medicare, manage your benefits, or get help with IRMAA adjustments. 7. Missouri Primary Care Association 🔗 https://www.mo-pca.org Find community health centers and rural clinics throughout Missouri.

Most of you have probably heard that Medicare 2026 is shaping up to be a year of big changes—some are even calling it a complete reset. But the real question is, do you know what’s changing, why it’s happening, and how you can respond in a way that benefits you? That’s exactly what we’ll cover today, so when these changes arrive, you’ll be informed, prepared, and ready to make smart decisions. Change is touching nearly every part of Medicare—Parts A and B, supplemental plans, drug plans, and Advantage plans. For those on Medicare A and B, we expect small premium increases in 2026. Part A, which covers inpatient care, remains free for most people who’ve paid into the system, while Part B, covering outpatient services, will likely see an increase of about 10% to 11%. High-income earners may also see adjustments due to IRMAA surcharges, which apply to both Parts B and D. Supplemental, or Medigap, plans continue to help fill the financial gaps Medicare doesn’t cover, but rising medical costs have caused premiums to climb faster than usual. Many people are reviewing whether to stay on Plan F, G, or N—each with different coverage and savings trade-offs. Meanwhile, Advantage plans and drug plans are also shifting, with some carriers leaving markets and others adjusting networks, benefits, and drug formularies. The takeaway: 2026 will bring more Medicare adjustments than we’ve seen in years, and being proactive is key. Whether you’re considering switching plans, appealing an IRMAA, or just want to be sure you’re not overpaying, now is the time to review your coverage and make informed choices. When the changes come, being prepared could mean real savings and peace of mind. 🏥 Missouri Health & Medicare Resources 1. MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) 🔗 https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare Apply for or manage Medicaid benefits, check eligibility, and access provider information. 2. Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) 🔗 https://health.mo.gov Official updates on statewide health programs, rural hospital initiatives, and senior care. 3. Missouri SHIP – State Health Insurance Assistance Program 🔗 https://missouriship.org Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for Missouri residents. 4. Missouri Hospital Association (MHA) 🔗 https://web.mhanet.com News and data on hospital policy, rural health initiatives, and local healthcare updates. 5. HealthCare.gov – Marketplace Coverage 🔗 https://www.healthcare.gov Compare Marketplace plans, renew coverage, and track open enrollment dates. 6. Social Security Administration – Medicare Information 🔗 https://www.ssa.gov/medicare Sign up for Medicare, manage your benefits, or get help with IRMAA adjustments. 7. Missouri Primary Care Association 🔗 https://www.mo-pca.org Find community health centers and rural clinics throughout Missouri.