Cybersecurity 10 Tips for Staying Safe on the Internet from Viva Health's Data Security Officer Lynn Murphree Many seniors dont use digital tools because they worry about Internet scams and hackers. Knowing what to look out for will help keep you safe. Read these tips from Viva Health's Data Security Officer Lynn Murphree to learn how to spot harmful websites, shop online safely, choose secure passwords, and much more.1.    Dont share sensitive information, like your social security number, Medicare ID number, bank account details, or other personal data in an email. When registering for portals like the Viva Health Member Portal or our partner portals, you will be asked to provide your Medicare ID number to make sure you are the one setting up the account. This is safe and secure.  2.    When browsing sites, do not click on pop-up ads. Pop-up ads are ads that open in a new window. Pop-ups may have viruses that can auto-download to your device or computer.  3.    Only shop from sites you are familiar with, like Amazon.  4.    When making online purchases, make sure the product is shipped from the USA rather than another country.  5.    To make sure a website is secure, check for https instead of just http in the URL.  6.    Never use your debit card (linked to your checking account) for online transactions. Use a credit card instead.  7.    Always use 2-Factor Authentication whenever it is available. This is also known as multi-factor authentication.  8.    If you use Facebook or other social media sites, never accept a friend request from someone you dont know.  9.    When creating passwords, make sure they are at least eight characters long and include a combination of numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and symbols.  10.  Never respond to personal emergency emails, posts, or messages on social media. Go to vivahealth.com/medicare/events/videos, type in cybersecurity in the search box to view a video for more information. Contact Viva Health at 800-830-8432 to discover more about Medicare options in Alabama.  

Choosing Medicare coverage can feel complicated, especially when several health insurance plans advertise different premiums, prescription benefits, provider networks, and additional services.For older adults in Mobile, Alabama, the challenge is not simply finding a Medicare Advantage plan. It is determining which plan best matches personal healthcare needs, preferred physicians, medications, and financial circumstances.One plan may advertise a $0 monthly plan premium but have higher costs for certain specialist appointments. Another may offer additional benefits for dental, vision, or hearing services. A third may provide access to a preferred hospital system but have different pharmacy coverage.Understanding these differences is essential before making an enrollment decision.Viva Health Medicare, commonly known as Viva Medicare, offers Medicare Advantage plans for eligible residents of Mobile County and other Alabama communities.The organization provides HMO-based Medicare Advantage coverage, with plan options that may include prescription drugs, preventive healthcare, dental services, vision benefits, hearing coverage, and wellness programs.With a local office on Dauphin Street in Mobile, Viva Medicare also provides opportunities to ask questions about available coverage.For individuals reviewing Medicare options, a careful comparison can help identify the coverage that meets their needs for the coming year. What Is Medicare Advantage?Medicare Advantage, also called Medicare Part C, is an alternative way to receive Medicare-covered healthcare benefits.These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage generally receive their Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through their selected plan instead of through Original Medicare.Medicare Advantage Plans May IncludeDepending on the specific plan, coverage may include:Hospital servicesPrimary care appointmentsSpecialist visitsPreventive healthcarePrescription medicationsDental servicesVision careHearing servicesFitness benefitsTelehealth servicesOther supplemental benefitsNot every plan offers the same coverage.The amount a member pays and the conditions for using particular services vary according to the plan's official benefit documents. Medicare Advantage Versus Original MedicareUnderstanding the differences between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare is an important first step.Original MedicareOriginal Medicare includes:Part A: Hospital insurancePart B: Medical insurancePeople with Original Medicare can generally visit any healthcare provider who accepts Medicare.They may purchase a separate Part D prescription drug plan and, when eligible, a Medicare Supplement Insurance policy.Medicare AdvantageMedicare Advantage combines Medicare Part A and Part B coverage through a private plan.Many Medicare Advantage plans also include Part D prescription coverage.These plans may use provider networks and have specific rules governing certain services.Important Differences to CompareBefore choosing coverage, consider:Monthly premiumsProvider network restrictionsPrescription drug coverageCopayments and coinsuranceDeductiblesAnnual out-of-pocket limitsReferral requirementsPrior authorization requirementsCoverage when travelingSupplemental benefitsNeither option is automatically the best choice for everyone.The appropriate selection depends on personal circumstances. Viva Health Medicare in Mobile, AlabamaViva Medicare is offered by Viva Health, an Alabama-based health insurance organization.Viva Medicare provides Medicare Advantage HMO plans and has a contract with Medicare and the Alabama Medicaid Agency.The organization offers eligible plans in Mobile County.Its official website allows individuals to review coverage based on their county of residence and Medicaid status.A Local Mobile OfficeViva Medicare maintains a Mobile location at:3059 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36606Local Phone: 251-380-2222The office provides an option for residents who prefer speaking with an Alabama-based representative.Individuals should confirm whether an appointment is necessary before visiting.Available Medicare Advantage PlansViva Medicare offers several Medicare Advantage plan types in Alabama.Its published plan information includes options such as:Viva Medicare PlusViva Medicare PremierViva Medicare SelectViva Medicare ClassicViva Medicare Extra ValueViva Medicare Extra CareViva Medicare Infirmary Health AdvantageOther plan options identified in current-year materialsSome plans are designed for individuals with specific eligibility requirements.Plan names, service areas, premiums, and benefits may change annually.Residents should use the official plan selection tool to verify which options are available in Mobile County for the coverage year they are considering. Why Provider Networks MatterOne of the most important factors when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is the provider network.A plan may offer attractive benefits, but those benefits may be less useful if preferred healthcare professionals are not included.Primary Care ProvidersMany older adults have established relationships with primary care physicians.Before enrolling, determine whether your doctor participates in the specific Viva Medicare plan you are considering.SpecialistsIndividuals managing chronic conditions may regularly see:CardiologistsOrthopedic specialistsEndocrinologistsNeurologistsOphthalmologistsUrologistsOther medical professionalsConfirm that necessary specialists are in-network.Hospitals and Health SystemsViva Medicare advertises an Infirmary Health Advantage plan with access to the Infirmary Health system.However, this does not mean every Viva Medicare plan provides identical hospital access.Provider participation should be verified for the exact plan and coverage year.Referral RequirementsCertain HMO arrangements may have rules about specialist visits.Viva's published provider information describes specialist access within selected provider systems, but requirements can vary by plan.Ask whether referrals or authorizations are necessary for the services you commonly use.Why Annual Verification MattersHealthcare provider networks can change.A physician who participated in one year's network may have a different status the following year.Verify network participation directly with the plan and provider before enrollment. Understanding Medicare Advantage CostsA $0 monthly premium can be appealing.However, the monthly premium is only one part of a plan's total cost.Monthly PremiumSome Viva Medicare plans advertise $0 monthly plan premiums.Other options may have separate premiums.Members generally must continue paying their Medicare Part B premium unless an applicable assistance arrangement changes their responsibility.Primary Care CopaymentsSome plans advertise $0 primary care visits.However, specific cost-sharing arrangements depend on the selected plan.Specialist CopaymentsMembers may pay a fixed amount when visiting certain specialists.Prescription CostsMedication expenses depend on drug coverage, pharmacy selection, and the applicable formulary.Hospital CostsPlans may charge copayments or other cost sharing for hospital care.Maximum Out-of-Pocket AmountMedicare Advantage plans have an annual maximum out-of-pocket limit for covered Part A and Part B services.This limit can provide important financial protection, but it does not include every possible expense, such as premiums and most Part D prescription drug costs.Evaluating Total CostsConsider how frequently you expect to use:Primary careSpecialist servicesLaboratory testsDiagnostic imagingHospital servicesPhysical therapyPrescription medicationsA plan with a low premium may not be the least expensive option for someone who frequently uses medical services. Prescription Drug Coverage and Pharmacy NetworksPrescription medications are especially important for many Medicare beneficiaries.A person managing diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or another chronic condition may take several medications every day.Before choosing a Medicare Advantage plan, review the prescription drug benefit carefully.Check the FormularyA formulary is the list of medications covered by a prescription drug plan.Confirm that each medication appears on the specific plan's current formulary.Review Drug TiersPlans may assign medications to different cost-sharing tiers.Generic drugs may have different costs from preferred or nonpreferred brand-name medications.Confirm Pharmacy ParticipationDetermine whether your preferred pharmacy participates in the network.Review Medication RestrictionsSome medications may require prior authorization, step therapy, or quantity limits.Compare Annual Medication CostsA useful comparison considers the expected annual cost of prescriptions, not just the price of one medication.Viva Medicare publishes pharmacy directories and prescription-related documents to help members review these details. Additional Benefits Available Through Viva MedicareViva Medicare advertises supplemental benefits through certain plan options.However, benefits vary by plan and coverage year.Dental BenefitsSome plans include dental coverage.Ask whether the coverage includes routine examinations, cleanings, restorative services, or other treatments.Also confirm annual limits and participating dentists.Vision CoverageCertain Viva Medicare plans advertise vision benefits and eyewear allowances.Review the available allowance, covered services, and provider network.Hearing BenefitsSome plans include hearing examinations or hearing aid benefits.Coverage restrictions and allowances may apply.Fitness MembershipsViva Medicare advertises fitness-related benefits through selected plans.These may help qualifying members participate in approved fitness programs.Over-the-Counter BenefitsSome plans provide allowances for eligible over-the-counter healthcare items.Ask which products are covered, where the allowance can be used, and whether unused amounts expire.Telehealth ServicesSome plans include access to telehealth services.These options may allow members to communicate with healthcare professionals remotely when clinically appropriate.Nurse Advice ServicesViva Medicare advertises a 24-hour nurse line through selected coverage.Members should confirm the availability and terms of this benefit. Why Medicare Advantage Matters in Mobile CountyMobile County residents have different medical needs, healthcare preferences, and financial circumstances.Some beneficiaries rely primarily on preventive care and occasional physician visits.Others require regular specialty appointments or prescription medications.Access to Local HealthcareHaving appropriate access to nearby physicians and hospitals can be particularly important for individuals with chronic conditions.Coordinating Ongoing TreatmentPeople managing multiple health concerns may benefit from understanding how a plan coordinates primary care, specialty care, and prescriptions.Planning for TransportationTransportation to medical appointments may influence healthcare access.If a plan advertises transportation benefits, members should confirm the exact eligibility, destinations, and trip limits.Maintaining Coverage While TravelingSome older adults travel outside Mobile County or spend time in other states.Review how the plan covers emergencies, urgent care, and nonemergency services outside its usual network.Managing Retirement ExpensesHealthcare costs are an important part of retirement budgeting.Comparing premiums, medication costs, and expected medical expenses can help families plan more effectively. Understanding HMO Medicare Advantage PlansViva Medicare describes its products as HMO plans.HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization.These plans generally use networks of participating healthcare professionals and facilities.In-Network CareRoutine covered services are generally obtained through network providers according to plan rules.Out-of-Network CareNonemergency out-of-network services may not be covered unless specific exceptions or authorizations apply.Emergency and urgently needed care are treated differently under applicable Medicare rules.Primary Care CoordinationHMO plans may emphasize coordination through a primary care provider.Plan-Specific RulesReferral and prior authorization requirements vary.Members should review the Evidence of Coverage rather than relying on general descriptions of HMO insurance. When Can You Enroll in Medicare Advantage?Enrollment generally occurs during designated Medicare enrollment periods.Initial Enrollment PeriodMany individuals first become eligible for Medicare around age 65.The initial enrollment timing depends on individual circumstances.Annual Medicare Open EnrollmentMedicare's annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7.During this period, eligible beneficiaries can review and change Medicare Advantage or prescription drug coverage.Changes generally take effect January 1 of the following year.For example, changes selected during October 15 through December 7, 2026, generally begin January 1, 2027.Medicare Advantage Open EnrollmentFrom January 1 through March 31, individuals already enrolled in Medicare Advantage generally have an opportunity to make one eligible plan change or return to Original Medicare.This is not a general enrollment period for everyone with Original Medicare to enter Medicare Advantage.Special Enrollment PeriodsCertain circumstances may create additional enrollment opportunities.Examples can include moving, losing qualifying coverage, or changes in eligibility for assistance programs.The applicable rules depend on the situation. Reviewing Medicare Coverage Before December 7Annual enrollment is a useful opportunity to review changes in healthcare needs.Review the Annual Notice of ChangeCurrent Medicare Advantage members should examine the plan's Annual Notice of Change.This document explains important changes affecting the next coverage year.Confirm Your DoctorsVerify that primary care providers, specialists, and relevant healthcare facilities remain in-network.Check Your PrescriptionsReview the new formulary and pharmacy arrangements.Compare CostsConsider premiums, copayments, deductibles, and expected out-of-pocket expenses.Evaluate Additional BenefitsDetermine whether supplemental services match your needs.Consider Personal ChangesA new diagnosis, medication, or treatment plan may influence which coverage is appropriate. How to Compare Viva Medicare PlansA structured comparison can make Medicare Advantage decisions more manageable.Step 1: List Current Healthcare ProvidersInclude primary care physicians, specialists, and preferred hospitals.Step 2: Prepare a Medication ListRecord medication names, strengths, and prescribed frequencies.Step 3: Estimate Medical VisitsConsider expected appointments and other healthcare services.Step 4: Review Monthly CostsInclude plan premiums and the applicable Medicare Part B premium.Step 5: Check Annual Financial ExposureReview the maximum out-of-pocket amount and other potential expenses.Step 6: Compare Supplemental BenefitsConsider dental, vision, hearing, fitness, and other services.Step 7: Review Enrollment RulesConfirm that you qualify for the plan and are within an eligible enrollment period.Step 8: Request Written Plan InformationUse the official Summary of Benefits and Evidence of Coverage before making a final selection. Expert Tip for Choosing Medicare Advantage CoverageExpert Tip: When comparing Medicare Advantage plans, prioritize the healthcare services you already use before evaluating extra benefits. Confirm your doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and prescriptions first, then compare premiums and supplemental coverage.An attractive benefit has limited value if the plan does not provide suitable access to essential healthcare services. How to Get Started With Viva Health MedicareStep 1: Confirm Medicare EligibilityMedicare Advantage enrollment generally requires enrollment in Medicare Part A and Part B.Step 2: Review Available County PlansVisit https://www.vivahealth.com/medicare/plans to review plans available in Mobile County.Step 3: Contact Viva MedicareCall 1-888-830-8482 to speak with a representative about Medicare Advantage options.Step 4: Visit the Mobile OfficeViva Medicare has an office at 3059 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36606.Local office phone: 251-380-2222.Step 5: Check Provider ParticipationVerify your healthcare professionals and hospitals for the specific plan.Step 6: Review Medication CoverageCheck the plan's current formulary and pharmacy directory.Step 7: Compare Financial ResponsibilitiesReview premiums, cost sharing, annual limits, and supplemental benefit restrictions.Step 8: Complete Enrollment During an Eligible PeriodUse the plan's official enrollment process or Medicare.gov, and confirm the effective date. Frequently Asked Questions About Viva Medicare1. Does Viva Medicare offer Medicare Advantage plans in Mobile County?Yes. Viva Medicare offers HMO Medicare Advantage coverage in Mobile County. Available plans depend on the coverage year, county of residence, and individual eligibility.2. Where is the Viva Medicare office in Mobile, Alabama?The Mobile office is located at 3059 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36606. The published local telephone number is 251-380-2222.3. Does Viva Medicare offer $0 monthly premium plans?Yes. Viva Medicare advertises certain plans with $0 monthly plan premiums. However, benefits and availability vary, and members generally remain responsible for the applicable Medicare Part B premium unless assistance or a plan benefit applies.4. Does Viva Medicare include prescription drug coverage?Many Viva Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage. Members should review the exact plan formulary, cost-sharing amounts, pharmacy network, and medication restrictions.5. When can I change my Medicare Advantage plan?Medicare's annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. Individuals already enrolled in Medicare Advantage may also qualify to make a change during the January 1 through March 31 Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. Other enrollment opportunities may apply in special circumstances. Choose Coverage That Matches Your Healthcare NeedsMedicare Advantage plans can offer different combinations of medical coverage, prescription benefits, provider networks, and supplemental services.However, the right plan is not necessarily the one with the lowest advertised premium or the longest list of additional benefits.A useful Medicare comparison considers the healthcare professionals you trust, the medications you need, expected medical expenses, and the financial responsibilities involved.For eligible residents throughout Mobile County, Viva Health Medicare offers Medicare Advantage options supported by Alabama-based representatives and a local Mobile office.By reviewing official plan documents, confirming provider participation, and asking detailed questions, beneficiaries can make more informed coverage decisions.Contact Viva Medicare to explore available Mobile County plans, discuss eligibility, and request current benefit information.Plan Availability: Depends on county, coverage year, and eligibility.Coverage Note: Premiums, provider networks, prescription benefits, and cost-sharing arrangements vary by plan. Find Viva Medicare on Seniors Blue BookLooking for Medicare Advantage plans in Mobile, Alabama?Explore Viva Health Medicare through Seniors Blue Book on SeniorsBlueBook.com.Learn about Medicare Advantage coverage, available plan options, and the importance of comparing provider networks, prescriptions, and costs before enrolling.Contact Viva Medicare to review available Mobile County plans and request current enrollment information. 

Viva Health: Helping Alabama Seniors Navigate Medicare with ConfidenceChoosing a Medicare plan is one of the most important healthcare decisions youll make during retirement. With so many coverage options, enrollment periods, and benefit details to understand, its easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether youre enrolling in Medicare for the first time or reviewing your current coverage during the annual enrollment period, having a trusted health plan can make all the difference.For nearly three decades, Viva Health has served Alabama residents by offering health coverage designed to support individuals, families, employers, and Medicare beneficiaries. As a company rooted in Alabama, Viva Health focuses on making quality healthcare more accessible through an extensive provider network, local customer support, and Medicare Advantage plans created specifically for the needs of Alabama seniors.If youre searching for a Medicare Advantage plan in Mobile, Baldwin County, Birmingham, Montgomery, or anywhere across Alabama, learning about your available options is an important first step toward protecting both your health and your financial well-being.Why Choosing the Right Medicare Plan MattersHealthcare needs often change as we age. Routine doctor visits, preventive screenings, prescription medications, dental care, vision services, and hearing support all become increasingly important for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.A Medicare Advantage plan combines many of these healthcare services into one comprehensive plan, helping eligible beneficiaries simplify their healthcare while managing out-of-pocket expenses.Selecting the right coverage isnt simply about comparing monthly premiums. Its also about understanding:       Which doctors and specialists are included in the provider network       What hospitals are available       Prescription drug coverage options       Preventive healthcare benefits       Annual out-of-pocket cost protections       Additional wellness benefitsHaving these resources available through one coordinated plan can make managing healthcare much easier throughout retirement.Medicare Advantage plans can help eligible Medicare beneficiaries access coordinated healthcare while providing valuable benefits that support long-term wellness. A Trusted Name in Alabama HealthcareSince its founding in 1995, Viva Health has focused on delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare coverage throughout Alabama.Today, the organization serves members through employer-sponsored health plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and healthcare administration services while remaining deeply connected to communities across the state.As part of the respected University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Health System, Viva Health works alongside a broad network of healthcare professionals and medical facilities dedicated to serving Alabama residents.This long-standing presence allows members to receive healthcare from many of the physicians, hospitals, specialists, and healthcare providers they already know and trust.Extensive Provider Network Across AlabamaOne of the most important considerations when selecting a health plan is provider access.Viva Healths provider network includes many healthcare resources throughout Alabama, including:       Primary care physicians       Medical specialists       Hospitals       Urgent care centers       Pharmacies       Home health agencies       Skilled nursing facilities       Durable medical equipment providers       Additional healthcare vendors supporting ongoing medical needsThis broad network helps members coordinate care more easily while staying connected to trusted healthcare professionals close to home. Medicare Advantage Plans Designed for Alabama SeniorsViva Health has participated in the Medicare Advantage program through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) since 1998.Medicare Advantage (also called Medicare Part C) is an alternative way to receive Original Medicare benefits through a private insurance company approved by Medicare. These plans often combine hospital coverage, medical coverage, and additional benefits into one plan.Depending on the plan selected, Viva Medicare Advantage plans may include benefits such as:       Plans with premiums starting as low as $0 per month       Options with or without prescription drug coverage       $0 primary care provider visits       Dental benefits       Vision benefits       Hearing aid benefits       Annual limits on out-of-pocket medical and prescription drug costsBecause every persons healthcare needs are different, reviewing available plan options can help determine which coverage best fits your lifestyle and budget. Supporting Healthcare Beyond MedicareWhile many seniors know Viva Health through its Medicare Advantage offerings, the organization also serves Alabama residents in several additional ways.Employer Group Health CoverageSince receiving its HMO license in 1996, Viva Health has provided employer-sponsored health insurance throughout all 67 Alabama counties.Organizations across the state rely on Viva Health for employee healthcare coverage, making it a familiar name among both working adults and retirees. Care Coordination Through Alabama Coordinated Health NetworksHealthcare extends beyond insurance coverage alone.Through Alabama Coordinated Health Networks (ACHNs), Viva Health provides care management services that help eligible Medicaid recipients receive coordinated healthcare support.These programs focus on:       Care coordination       Maternity support services       Collaboration with healthcare providers       Removing barriers to healthcare access       Improving long-term health outcomesBy working alongside physicians, community organizations, and healthcare providers, these programs help individuals receive more connected and personalized care. Local Support Makes a DifferenceHealthcare questions dont always happen during doctors appointments.Thats why Viva Health operates community-based retail locations throughout Alabama where both members and the public can:       Ask questions about healthcare coverage       Learn about Medicare options       Attend educational events       Receive information about available benefitsHaving access to knowledgeable local representatives can make navigating Medicare far less stressful, especially for individuals enrolling for the first time. Understanding Medicare Enrollment PeriodsKnowing when you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan is just as important as choosing the right one.Several enrollment opportunities may be available depending on your situation.Initial Coverage Election Period (ICEP)Individuals who are becoming eligible for Medicare for the first time may enroll during their Initial Coverage Election Period.This enrollment window generally begins three months before a person first becomes eligible for both Medicare Part A and Part B and extends through the applicable enrollment timeframe established by Medicare. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)Every year between October 15 and December 7, Medicare beneficiaries can:       Join a Medicare Advantage plan       Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan       Return to Original MedicareCoverage selected during this period generally becomes effective on January 1. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment PeriodIndividuals already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may have an opportunity between January 1 and March 31 to make a one-time change by switching Medicare Advantage plans or returning to Original Medicare, subject to Medicare eligibility rules. Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)Certain life events may qualify individuals for a Special Enrollment Period outside of the standard enrollment windows.Examples may include:       Moving to a new service area       Losing employer-sponsored health coverage       Changes in Medicaid eligibility       Qualifying for Extra Help with prescription drug costsBecause every situation is unique, its helpful to discuss available enrollment options with a knowledgeable Medicare representative.Quick Summary: Medicare offers multiple enrollment opportunities throughout the year depending on age, eligibility, and qualifying life events. Committed to Alabama CommunitiesViva Health believes supporting healthy communities extends beyond healthcare coverage.Employees regularly volunteer with nonprofit organizations throughout Alabama, while the company also provides sponsorships and community support for organizations that promote health, wellness, education, and quality of life.Community partnerships have included organizations focused on:       Heart health       Diabetes awareness       Childrens healthcare       Senior services       Transportation assistance       Maternal health       Community wellnessThis ongoing involvement reflects a commitment to improving the health of Alabama residents both inside and outside the healthcare system. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is Medicare Advantage?Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is an alternative to Original Medicare that combines Medicare-covered services through a private insurance company approved by Medicare. Many plans also include additional benefits beyond Original Medicare.Does Viva Health only serve seniors?No. Viva Health also offers employer group health plans and healthcare administration services in addition to Medicare Advantage coverage.Where does Viva Health provide coverage?Viva Health serves communities throughout Alabama, with employer group coverage available statewide and healthcare resources located across the state.Can I change my Medicare Advantage plan later?Depending on your eligibility, Medicare provides several enrollment periods each year that may allow you to join, switch, or change Medicare Advantage plans.How can I learn which plan is right for me?Speaking with a licensed Medicare representative can help you understand available plans, provider networks, covered benefits, and enrollment timelines based on your individual healthcare needs. Explore Your Medicare Options with Viva HealthChoosing Medicare coverage doesnt have to be confusing. Whether youre enrolling for the first time or reviewing your existing benefits, Viva Health offers Alabama residents access to comprehensive Medicare Advantage plans, an extensive provider network, and knowledgeable local support.Contact Viva Health at 833-544-3163 to explore your options.

How to Prevent & Treat Joint Pain Most of us never think about our joints until they start to hurt. As we age, we lose strength and flexibility in our tendons and ligaments. As our joints get tighter, it may become harder to move. The cartilage between our bones of the joints also starts to break down; this leads to inflammation and osteoarthritis, the most common joint disorder. Taking care of your joints can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Five Tips to Keep Your Joints Healthy  1.      Stay at a healthy weight. Carrying extra body weight puts strain on thejoints, especially the knees. On the flip side, being underweight can lead to a lackof muscle, which helps keep your joints strong and stable. Aim for a healthy weightbased on your height and body type. 2.      Exercise every day and make sure to warm up before and cool down after.You may think it's better to limit exercise if your joints are hurting, but regularmovement and exercise is one of the best ways to prevent and help joint pain.Exercise strengthens the muscles around joints, helping to take pressure off them.If you have joint pain, stick to low-impact activities like biking, swimming,and walking. The more you move, the more likely youll keep moving without painand stiffness as you age. It's also important to stretch before and after you exercise to loweryour risk of straining joints and muscles. Just five minutes of stretching beforeexercise to warm up your joints and five minutes after to cool down will helpprevent workout injuries. 3.      Add anti-inflammatory foods to your diet. A Mediterranean diet richin fruit, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and healthy fats reduces joint pain. Addthese other anti-inflammatory foods to your grocery list:         Tomatoes         Olive oil         Green leafy vegetables, like spinach, kale, and collards         Nuts like almonds and walnuts         Fatty fish, like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines         Fruits, like strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges 4.      Make sure you're drinking enough water. Your bodys cartilage thatcushions your joints is made up of 80% water. When you get dehydrated, yourbody starts pulling water from other sources, including cartilage. This leads to jointpain and a greater risk of injury. 5.      If you smoke, it's time to quit! Smoking is a risk factor for everything, fromheart and lung problems to cancer and joint pain. Smoking increases inflammationthroughout the body. This makes it harder for your body to heal if you injure yourjoints. To quit smoking, seek support and a treatment plan from your Primary CareProvider. His or her phone number is on the back of your Viva Medicare ID card.  Contact Viva Health to find out more about Medicare Plans in the Alabama area.  Call 800-633-8472 to find out more!