Special to the Sun
Every year, Medicare’s open enrollment period is from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, Legal Aid of the Bluegrass reminds folks in a press release.
It’s important to check and make sure your plan meets your needs because Medicare, Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans can make changes to their plans each year, including cost, coverage and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks.
People with Medicare can change their health plans and prescription drug coverage between Oct.15 and Dec. 7 for the following year to make sure their plans meet their needs.
How do people know if they need to change plans?
People in a Medicare, Medicare Advantage or a prescription drug plan should always review the materials their plans send them, like the “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC). If their plans are changing, they should make sure the changes in the plan will still meet their needs for the following year. If they’re satisfied that their current plans will meet their needs for next year and it’s still being offered, they don’t need to do anything. These materials should be mailed out prior to Oct. 1 of each year.
When can people get information about next year’s Medicare plans?
Information for next year’s plans will be available beginning in October.
Where can people find Medicare plan information or compare plans?
Your Medicare SHIP Program can provide comparison assistance at no charge to you. Medicare SHIP does NOT sell or endorse any insurance company. We are here to help you make informed decisions regarding your Medicare needs. Additionally, our program can screen you for money-saving benefits to help with lowering your medication and Medicare premium costs, among helping with other monthly expenses.
Call the Medicare SHIP Program today at 1-866-516-3051 if you have any questions.