UCare's MSHO and Connect + Medicare plans closing Dec. 31
We'll help you understand what this means and the steps you can take.
Important update for plan members
Your UCare's MSHO or Connect + Medicare plan will end on Dec. 31, 2025.
It's important to select a new plan for 2026 before Dec. 31, 2025. Rest assured, you will still have coverage for 2026 even if you take no action.
We'll help you understand what this means and what steps you can take.
Enrolling in a new plan
You can enroll in a new plan by Dec. 31 for Jan. 1 coverage. You can select a new MSHO, integrated Special Needs BasicCare Plan (if one is available) or Medicare plan in your county. Because you have Medicare and Medical Assistance, you can choose to enroll in an MSHO or integrated Special Needs BasicCare plan anytime throughout the year, even if you miss the Dec. 31 deadline. Below are some resources that can help.
Your care coordinator
Contact your care coordinator to have your questions answered and receive guidance on next steps. If you need contact information for your care coordinator, call the customer service number on the back of your member ID card.
Minnesota Aging Pathways
UCare’s MSHO members can visit this service offered by the State of Minnesota that supports older adults. Formerly known as the Minnesota Senior LinkAge Line. You can call 1-800-333-2433.
Disability Hub MN
Connect + Medicare members can use this free statewide resource network that helps people with disabilities understand their health coverage options and more. You can call 1-866-333-2466.
Medicare.gov
The official U.S. government website for Medicare can help you find and understand your health plan options. You can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1‑800-633-4227), TTY users call 1-877-486-2048.
What happens if I don't enroll in a new plan by Dec. 31, 2025?
As a MSHO or Connect + Medicare member, you currently have both Medicare and Medical Assistance coverage combined in one plan. If you don’t enroll in another MSHO or integrated Special Needs BasicCare plan, your coverage will be split:
Medicare coverage
If you don't choose a new Medicare plan by Dec. 31, 2025, you'll move to Original Medicare. Plus, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) will automatically enroll you in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, so you continue to have drug coverage. This coverage will start Jan. 1, 2026.
Medical Assistance (Medicaid) coverage
If you don't choose a new plan, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) will automatically enroll you in one of these plans:
- UCare MSC+ (for current MSHO members)
- UCare Connect (for current Connect + Medicare members)
This coverage will start Jan. 1, 2026.
Important dates
Dec. 31
Deadline to enroll for Jan. 1
Your current UCare plan coverage ends on Dec. 31. You can select a new plan by this date for Jan. 1 coverage.
Jan. 1
Your coverage changes
If you select a new plan by Dec. 31, your new coverage will begin on Jan. 1. If you didn't select a new Medicare plan by Dec. 31, you will now be covered by Original Medicare, a standalone Part D prescription drug plan and a Medical Assistance plan.
Jan. 31
Deadline to enroll for Feb. 1
If you enroll in a new plan by this date, your new coverage will begin Feb. 1.
Feb. 28
Deadline to enroll for March 1
If you enroll in a new plan by this date, your new coverage will begin March 1.
March 31
Deadline to enroll for April 1
If you enroll in a new plan by this date, your new coverage will begin April 1.
Throughout 2026
Enroll in a new plan
You can enroll in an MSHO or integrated Special Needs BasicCare Plan anytime in 2026. Your new coverage will start on the first day of the next month.