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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Guest Speaker

Ally Thomas
Associate Vice President of Quality Improvement at UPMC Health Plan
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Last Updated: 10/20/2025
