NVH Newsletter October 2025
Medicare (Dis)Advantage Plans?
Medicare’s open enrollment period, from October 15 through December 7, is the time each year when beneficiaries can review their coverage and make changes for the coming year. Many people take this opportunity to compare Original Medicare with Medicare Advantage plans offered by private insurance companies.
At North Valley Hospital, we encourage our community to take a careful look before switching to a Medicare Advantage plan. While these plans often bundle hospital, medical, and prescription coverage—and may include extras like dental or vision—they can also come with important limitations that affect where and how you receive care.
Most Medicare Advantage plans use a narrow network of providers, which can mean your preferred doctor or hospital may not be covered. Some services require prior authorization, and decisions about your care may be made by the plan rather than your healthcare team. In some cases, patients discover too late that out-of-network or denied services can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Original Medicare generally provides broader access—you can see any provider who accepts Medicare, without needing referrals or prior approvals. For many patients in rural areas, including those who rely on North Valley Hospital care, this flexibility can make a meaningful difference.
If you’re reviewing your options, take time to ask questions and compare carefully. Ensure your preferred providers and hospitals are in-network, and verify that your medications and services are covered.
For free, unbiased help reviewing your options, contact the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program or visit www.medicare.gov.
At NVH, our mission is to ensure our community members can access the care they need—without unnecessary barriers or surprises. Thoughtful decisions now can help protect that access in the year ahead.
A portion of the new Tonasket mural by artist Sarah Gilman
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
Each October, communities across the country turn pink to remind us how vital early detection is in the fight against breast cancer. Here at North Valley Hospital, we see firsthand how timely screenings can save lives. A simple mammogram can catch problems early—often before any symptoms appear.
If you’re due for your annual screening, our team is here to help. Call our scheduling desk at (509) 486-2151 to make an appointment or talk with your provider about when it’s right for you. Encourage the women in your life—mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends—to do the same.
Breast cancer awareness is more than a campaign; it’s a community effort. Together, we can continue to support those fighting, celebrate survivors, and keep spreading the word about early detection and hope.
Trick or Treat:
Bring the young ones (or those young at heart) to North Valley Extended Care’s Trunk of Treat. Halloween 3pm - 6pm. Our residents have a blast seeing the costumes and passing out candy!
Join Our Team:
If you or someone you know is looking for a rewarding career take a look at our open positions: Join Our Team