At HaysMed, we’re committed to helping our patients make informed healthcare decisions. We want to share that HaysMed is not contracted with most Medicare Advantage plans. This means our providers and services would be considered out-of-network, resulting in higher costs for you.

To ensure you have the coverage that best supports your care, we encourage you to connect with the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays or speak with your insurance agent. They can offer personalized guidance and help you explore options that align with your healthcare needs.

Kansas Hospital Association

Navigating Medicare Options for Kansas Seniors and Caregivers

As the Medicare open enrollment period approaches (Oct. 15-Dec. 7), now is the time for Kansas seniors and their families/caregivers to compare the benefits of Original Medicare plans versus Medicare Advantage. Accurate, helpful information is key to making the best choice about which Medicare option makes the most sense for you or your loved ones.

Medicare Advantage plans – which are privately insured alternatives to Original Medicare – cover all traditional Medicare health services. In addition, they usually include other benefits like vision, dental, and wellness programs. Some plans may offer free or discounted gym memberships or coverage for prescription drugs not included in Original Medicare. However, Medicare Advantage plans are typically limited to a narrower network of doctors and hospitals – and they require pre-authorization for certain services and medications – all of which can delay care, especially in rural areas with fewer in-network provider options.

By contrast, Original Medicare is federally funded and offers extensive access to providers nationwide. Beneficiaries can visit any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, which helps ensure access to timely care even in small communities.

Many will notice that Medicare Advantage plans often have lower premiums, but it’s important to realize that doesn’t account for other costs – such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. While the lower premiums may be appealing, the out-of-pocket expenses can add up quickly. A recent Kaiser study found that about half of all Medicare Advantage enrollees pay more for a seven-day hospital stay than those in Original Medicare.

By understanding the differences and considering all costs and requirements, people who are eligible for Medicare can make informed decisions that best suit their health care needs. If this topic applies to you or someone you care for, resources are readily available to assist you: Visit medicare.gov or call 1-800- MEDICARE to speak to a Medicare representative who can help you understand and compare plan options. Empower yourself with the right information – and the right health plan – for good health.

HaysMed continues to lead the way in women’s health across western Kansas, thanks in large part to board certified,  Dr. Timothy Hoskins, MD, and the da Vinci Surgical System. With more than 600 robotic-assisted procedures performed throughout his career, Dr. Hoskins brings a rare combination of surgical expertise, compassion, and dedication to improving outcomes for women in the region.

One of Dr. Hoskins’ specialties is robotic-assisted hysterectomy, a procedure that offers significant advantages over traditional surgery. With smaller incisions and faster healing, it’s especially beneficial for women who want minimal disruption to their daily lives. As the most experienced robotic gynecologic surgeon in western Kansas, Dr. Hoskins brings unmatched skill and care to every procedure.

“We’re proud to offer advanced surgical options that help women heal faster and get back to their lives sooner,” says Dr. Hoskins. “Robotic surgery allows us to perform complex procedures with greater precision, quicker surgery time, and recovery time, and less disruption to the body, that were previously large abdominal incisions.”

HaysMed is one of the few hospitals in western Kansas offering da Vinci Robotic Surgery for a wide range of gynecological procedures, including ovarian cyst removal, and treatment for fibroids. In rare cases when robotic surgery isn’t the best fit , Dr. Hoskins and his team are equally skilled in laparoscopic and traditional open techniques, ensuring every patient receives the most appropriate care for their unique needs.

For patients with an enlarged uterus due to fibroids, or a history of cesarean delivery, minimally invasive surgery remains a highly effective option. Procedures like robotic assisted hysterectomy offer many benefits, including same-day discharge, less postoperative pain, minimal blood loss, and a lower risk of injury to surrounding organs such as the bowel and bladder.

“Patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery often report quicker recovery, less scarring, and less pain,” Dr. Hoskins explains. “It’s a game-changer for women who want to return to their routines without a long hospital stay, especially for those women with an enlarged uterus and prior abdominal surgeries. ”

In addition to surgical excellence, HaysMed’s Birth Center remains a cornerstone of maternal care in the region. In 2024 alone, the center welcomed 553 newborns, reflecting its vital role in supporting families and promoting healthy beginnings.

Dr. Hoskins also works closely with board-certified urologist Dr. Ernesto Lopez-Corona to perform combined procedures, such as those for uterine and vaginal vault prolapse which could be causing issues such as incontinence. “By addressing multiple conditions in one surgery, we reduce recovery time and minimize anesthesia exposure,” says Dr. Hoskins. “It’s all about making care more efficient and comfortable for our patients.”

From cutting-edge surgical technology to compassionate maternity care, HaysMed continues to be the hospital chosen by women, for women.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, call the HaysMed Center for Women’s Health at 785-623-5806.

Related articles:
Women’s Robotic Surgery
HaysMed Birth Center Enhances Maternal Healthcare in Western Kansas

Dr. Timothy Hoskins, MD HaysMed OB GYN