What Medicare star ratings mean and the importance of preventive care

In this episode, hosts Patrice King Brown and Stacy Smith are joined by Ally Thomas, AVP of Quality Improvement at UPMC Health Plan, to explain how Medicare uses a five-star rating system to measure the quality of Medicare Advantage plans. Listeners will learn how ratings are determined, why they matter, and how preventive care plays a vital role in both plan quality and long-term health. Plus, Ally shares how members can earn rewards for completing important screenings—and why an annual wellness visit is one of the best things you can do for your health.

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"Medicare for the Record" is available wherever you enjoy podcasts.

Guest Speaker

Ally Thomas

Associate Vice President of Quality Improvement at UPMC Health Plan

Ally Thomas is the VP of Quality Improvement at UPMC Health Plan. She has a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and more than a decade of experience in improving outcomes in education and healthcare. She has spent the last seven years focused on advancing healthcare quality. Ally leads efforts to make care safer, more accessible, and more effective by using data, partnerships, and member feedback to drive meaningful change. By identifying opportunities for better care and partnering with providers and care teams, she strives to close gaps in care while improving member satisfaction. She has a deep expertise and member-centered perspective that drives her passion for supporting those with chronic conditions and ensuring every member receives equitable, high-quality care to help them live healthier, more confident lives.