What action can be taken if Mrs. Ridgeway discovers her providers are not in the MA network?

Mrs. Ridgeway's discovery that her providers are not in the Medicare Advantage (MA) network opens up options for her to assess her healthcare situation. Choosing to evaluate her plan options for changes is a proactive approach. This process allows her to explore other available Medicare Advantage plans that might include her current providers within their networks, enabling her to receive the care she prefers without additional out-of-pocket expenses.

When beneficiaries encounter network issues, it's important for them to examine all available options during the appropriate enrollment periods. This includes the Annual Election Period (AEP) or Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) that may arise due to specific circumstances that impact their access to care.

In contrast, options such as changing providers immediately without assessing plan options or requesting a review from the MA plan may not address the root of the problem, which revolves around provider network alignment. Additionally, the notion that beneficiaries must stay in the plan for a year overlooks the flexibility that exists within Medicare regulations, which allows for plan changes under certain circumstances. Hence, evaluating her plan options for potential changes is the most appropriate and informed action Mrs. Ridgeway can take in this situation.