In Good Company: Eldercare in Your Backyard

Trust You Can Feel in Cancer Care with Candi Jordan

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#cancercare #oncology #OncologyNursePractitioner #cancersupport #cancerawareness #cancersurvivorship #cancertreatment #hematology #oncologycare #oncologynursing #compassionatecare #patientadvocacy #empathyinmedicine #humanconnection #TrustInCare #healthcareheroes #qualityoflife #HopeAndHealing #healthcarewithheart #healthcareleadership #healthcaredecisions #healthcareinnovation #healthinsuranceexplained #medicalprofessionals #caregiversupport #patientexperience #educationalpodcast

Your Medicare Plan Could Disappear in 2026 — Here’s Why

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.#medicare #medicareadvantage #medicare2026 #medicareplans #medicarechanges #medicareupdate #medicarepartd #originalmedicare #seniorhealth #turning65 #healthcaredecisions #retirementplanning #healthinsuranceexplained #smartretirement #healthcarecosts #moneyandhealth #financialwellness #medicaremadesimple

Trump’s New Healthcare Law Explained in 7 Minutes

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.
#trumphealthcare #healthcarelaw #affordablecareact #medicaidreform #medicarereform #healthpolicy #ushealthcare #2025healthcare #healthcarechanges #healthinsuranceexplained #healthcareforall #policybreakdown #understandyourcoverage #smarthealthchoices #HealthLawExplained

The Medicare Reset: What’s REALLY Coming in 2026

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.#medicare #medicare2026 #medicarechanges #medicareupdate #medicareadvantage #medigap #medicaresupplement #partd #irmaa #seniorhealth #healthcaredecisions #healthinsuranceexplained #smartretirement #retirementplanning #healthcarecosts #moneyandhealth #financialwellness #medicaremadesimple

Home Care Under Fire - Missouri's Big Fight with Carol Hudspeth

In this episode of In Good Company, we sit down with Carol Hudspeth, Executive Director of the Missouri Alliance for Care at Home, to explore the critical fight to protect and expand home-based services in Missouri. Carol shares how the Alliance is working tirelessly to prevent funding cuts, advocate for sustainable Medicaid reimbursement, and ensure seniors and individuals with disabilities can continue living independently in their own homes. Government Outreach: Federal Representatives:
Sen. Josh Hawley (R) – 📞 DC: 202-224-6154 | Springfield: 417-869-4433
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R) – 📞 DC: 202-224-5721 | Springfield: 417-290-5000
Rep. Eric Burlison (R), MO-07 – 📞 DC: 202-225-6536 | Springfield: 417-889-1800 🏛️ Missouri State Senate
Sen. Lincoln Hough (R), SD-30 – 📞 573-751-1311
Sen. Curtis Trent (R), SD-20 – 📞 573-751-1503
Sen. Mike Moon (R), SD-29 – 📞 573-751-1480
 
🏠 Missouri State House
Greene County Rep. Bill Owen (R), HD-131 – 📞 573-751-2948
Rep. Jeremy Dean (D), HD-132 – 📞 573-751-3795
Rep. Melanie Stinnett (R), HD-133 – 📞 573-751-0136
Rep. Alex Riley (R), HD-134 – 📞 573-751-2210 🏡 Missouri State House
Christian County Rep. Burt Whaley (R), HD-138 – 📞 573-751-3851
Rep. Bob Titus (R), HD-139 – 📞 573-751-3833
Rep. Jamie Ray Gragg (R), HD-140 – 📞 573-751-2565
#homecare #homehealthcare #aginginplace #careathome #HomeCareAdvocacy #HomeCareWorkers #seniorcare #eldercare #disabilityservices #independentliving #healthcarepolicy #MedicaidReimbursement #MissouriHealthcare #healthcareadvocacy #publicpolicy #healthreform #MedicaidFunding #MissouriLegislature #healthcareaccess #compassionatecare #communitycare #supportseniors #ProtectHomeCare #healthcareforall #patientadvocacy #caregiversupport

How to Choose Care You Can Trust with Kim Sisk

In this episode of In Good Company: In The Field, we sit down with Kim Sisk, Administrative Director of Home Care Services at CoxHealth at Home, to explore the evolving world of patient-centered care. With more than 22 years of leadership in home health, home care, and hospice, Kim offers invaluable insights into how these services work together to support patients and families across Missouri. 👉 What you’ll learn in this episode: The key differences between home health and home care—and why they matter for families How CoxHealth’s hospice initiatives are shaping compassionate, end-of-life care The challenges of Medicaid reimbursement and what’s on the horizon for 2026 and beyond Why hospitals in rural areas struggle—and how this impacts communities Exciting innovations in home care and technology that improve patient outcomes Kim’s personal perspective on balancing compassionate care with operational excellence 💡 Whether you’re a caregiver, clinician, or patient, this episode will help you better understand the healthcare landscape and how to advocate effectively for yourself or your loved ones.#homecare #homehealthtips #homehealthcare #hospicecare #aginginplace #patientcenteredcare #caregiversupport #compassionatecare #seniorcare #eldercare #healthcareleadership #healthcareinnovation #healthcaredecisions #healthcareaccess #healthcareforall #MedicaidReimbursement #healthcarechallenges #operationalexcellence #healthcarepodcast #educationalpodcast #CoxHealthAtHome #CoxHealth #MissouriHealthcare #ruralhealthcare #MissouriHealth

The Legal Loophole that Could Save Your Home - Elder Law with Rachel Fortenberry

In this episode of In Good Company, we sit down with Rachel Fortenberry, founder and attorney of Fortified Elder Law & Estate Planning. Rachel and her team have helped families protect more than $12 million from being lost to nursing home costs. Recognized as one of Biz 417’s 10 for the Next 10 and the Springfield Business Journal’s 20 Most Influential Women (2025), she brings both sharp legal expertise and heartfelt compassion to her work. Join us as we dive into: Rachel’s journey from prosecutor to elder law attorney & entrepreneur How elder law helps families age well and plan for long-term care Medicaid, asset protection, and the myths families need to know Why estate planning should happen sooner rather than later Essential documents: Powers of Attorney, Wills, and Trusts How to avoid guardianship and crisis planning Community resources and partnerships supporting elder care Whether you’re planning for yourself or a loved one, this conversation offers practical insights and real-world guidance to help you protect what matters most. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more episodes of In Good Company, where we explore meaningful conversations on family, planning, and purposeful living.’#elderlaw #estateplanning #assetprotection #medicaidplanning #LongTermCarePlanning #nursinghomecosts #protectyourhome #eldercarelaw #willsandtrusts #powersofattorney #familywealth #legacyplanning #financialwellness #retirementplanning #peaceofmind #agingwell #seniorresources #planahead #protectwhatmatters #legaladvice #elderlawattorney #legaleducation #LawAndHealth #healthcaredecisions #smartretirement #educationalpodcast

Alzheimer's Changed His Life, Here's How - with Paul Morrison

In this powerful episode of In Good Company, hosts John Ray and Spencer Ernst welcome Paul Morrison, financial advisor at Edward Jones, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to the conversation.
Paul opens up about his journey caring for his mother-in-law with Alzheimer’s, and how that experience deepened his passion for supporting families facing similar challenges. As an active supporter of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Paul is committed to raising awareness and reminding caregivers that there are resources to help.
💡 In this conversation, you’ll discover:
Practical financial strategies for caregivers balancing loved ones and family needs
How to prepare financially across different life stages
Ways to reduce stress and bring compassion into tough financial seasons
Paul’s personal story of caregiving and how it shapes his work today
Why trust, faith, and community are the foundation of his approach
This episode is about more than numbers—it’s about hope, resilience, and building a legacy of care and trust.
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of In Good Company, where we share stories that inspire purpose and community connection.#alzheimersawareness #dementiacare #caregiversupport #alzheimerscaregiver #WalkToEndAlzheimers #AlzheimersJourney #memorycare #caringforlovedones #endalzheimers #seniorcare #financialplanning #financialwellness #familyfinance #legacyplanning #retirementplanning #moneyandhealth #peaceofmind #purposefulliving #HopeAndHealing #faithandcommunity #resilience #communitysupportedagriculture #compassioninaction #humanconnection #loveandcare #carewithcompassion

Hospice Isn't About Giving Up with Dr. Melissa Gaines

In this episode of In Good Company – Eldercare in Your Backyard, hosts John Ray and Spencer Ernst sit down with Dr. Melissa Gaines, Director of Hospice and Palliative Care at CoxHealth, to explore the true meaning of hospice and the importance of whole-person support at the end of life.
Dr. Gaines shares her personal journey into hospice care, dispels common myths and fears, and explains how hospice teams walk alongside patients and families with dignity, comfort, and compassion. We’ll also talk about challenges in rural communities, the role of emotional and spiritual support, and what families can do when they’re unsure where to begin.
📌 Topics we cover:
What hospice really is—and when to consider it
Common misconceptions about end-of-life care
Conversations every family should have when facing serious illness
How hospice supports both patients and loved ones
Access and equity challenges in rural Missouri
A moving story of impact from Dr. Gaines’s work
What “being in good company” means in the context of end-of-life care
Whether you’re a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about the role of hospice, this conversation offers both practical insight and heartfelt perspective.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow In Good Company for more meaningful conversations about eldercare and community.#hospicecare #palliativecare #endoflifecare #HospiceAwareness #HospiceEducation #hospicesupport #dignityincare #wholepersoncare #compassionatecare #ComfortAndDignity #caregiversupport #faithandcommunity #HopeAndHealing #loveandcompassion #humanconnection #griefsupport #courageandcompassion #healingthroughstories #lifeanddeath #LegacyOfCare #TheSoftSurrender #HospiceFilm #RandyBacon #HospiceAwarenessMonth #HospiceStories #EndOfLifeAwareness #HospiceAdvocacy

On A Mission - Moments Making Eldercare Meaningful with Sara Curry

In this episode of In Good Company: we sit down with Sara Curry, Program and Outreach Director at The Bungalows at Springfield East. With nearly a decade of experience in eldercare programming, Sara brings passion, creativity, and a personal connection to her work. She shares how her grandfather’s battle with Alzheimer’s shaped her calling, why meaningful activities are vital for building community among older adults, and the joy she finds in moments of connection and compassion. We also explore her professional growth through certifications, her children’s book project on dementia, and the role of faith, hope, and joy in end-of-life care. ✨ What you’ll hear in this episode: The difference creative activities make in eldercare How personal experiences with dementia inspire professional purpose Stories of transformation and connection with residents Sara’s journey in balancing compassion, leadership, and creativity If you’re interested in eldercare, dementia support, or simply the power of human connection, this episode will inspire and uplift you.#eldercare #seniorcare #dementiasupport #alzheimersawareness #memorycare #agingwithpurpose #creativeaging #meaningfulmoments #caregiversupport #seniorliving #faithandcommunity #HopeAndHealing #loveandcompassion #humanconnection #compassionincare #JoyInAging #purposefulliving #buildingcommunity #EldercareProgramming #ActivityDirectorLife #therapeuticactivities #creativecare #EngagedAging #recreationtherapy #momentsthatmatter