For many of us, insurance paperwork reads like stereo instructions. When it comes to retirement and healthcare, few things can be more daunting than navigating Medicare.

Ashley Hatch, owner of Hatch Medicare Solutions, is here to take the confusion out of the process. She says that helping others understand their Medicare and insurance needs is more than just a job. Hatch says she has found her calling in helping thousands in McKean and Potter counties navigate their health insurance.

“I help people work through health insurance on the marketplace through the Affordable Care Act and a lot of Medicare and supplemental insurance such as Medicare Part C advantage,” said Hatch.

She also assists with billing and claims issues and helps clients with their Medicare Part B enrollment, right in her office.

“People tell me all the time they’re so relieved not to have to call an 800 number and talk to someone in another state,” said Hatch. “I’m here, I’m available and I care.”

Located at 485 E. Main St. in Bradford, Hatch Medicare Solutions officially opened in November 2024.

“I have worked in healthcare most of my life,” she said. “At one point, I was working at a doctor’s office and I saw firsthand how hard it was for patients to understand their benefits and claims.”

She began her career at the Williams Agency and eventually decided to branch out on her own.

“I just knew that someone out there needed to help,” said Hatch.

And that is just what she has done. Hatch has helped thousands of individuals understand the Affordable Care Act and Medicare, including supplemental insurance, Advantage Plans and prescription drug coverage. Her slogan, “Medicare made simple,” captures the heart of her business.

“I meet one-on-one with each person, sometimes several times, before we decide what works best for them,” said Hatch.

That local connection is what sets Hatch Medicare Solutions Apart. Whether it’s guiding someone through their first Medicare decision or helping a client qualify for a program to reduce prescription drug costs, Hatch is focused on providing personalized, hands-on support.

Although people try to research on their own, Hatch says many of her clients are confused by the sheer volume of information out there.

“Because things are really changing right now I have to get my information from trusted sources,” said Hatch. “A lot of what is out there can be misleading, inaccurate or out of date.”

She brokers all of her information through Pittsburgh National Insurance. That is also where she gets all of her training materials.

“They keep me up to date almost daily with new information,” said Hatch.

The word-of-mouth and secondhand stories shared between friends only makes the picture more murky for someone trying to understand their own specific needs.

“Everyone has their own budget, health concerns and coverage needs so what works for one person won’t work for another,” said Hatch. “I deal with everyone in my office on a one-on-one basis because each client is different.”

She said that cost is the number one concern most of her clients voice, as most are on a fixed income.

“Cost is a big deal for all of my clients,” said Hatch. “That is one of the reasons I don’t charge for consultations or education.”

For the last six years, Hatch has taught free educational seminars at Bradford Regional Medical Center.

Many of Hatch’s clients are delighted once they sit down with her and really see the big picture.

“I can set their mind at ease just helping them understand what things cost and where the gaps are,” said Hatch.

Over the years, Hatch has served more than 15,000 clients. Each of them has left an impression upon her.

“I just love helping people,” said Hatch. “The most rewarding feeling in the world is knowing that you helped to make a difference.”

Looking ahead, Hatch hopes to continue expanding her reach, hosting more seminars and helping people understand what is often a complicated system.

The busy Hatch Medicare Solutions office is manned by Hatch’s daughter, Selah Landes. The teenager, who recently graduated high school, hopes to follow in her mother’s footsteps.

“She grew up seeing me in this business and I am delighted that she is going to come aboard,” said Hatch.

Those seeking help with their own insurance issues can contact Hatch at (814) 240-6493 or ashley@hatchmedicare.com, or stop in and talk to Selah.