Medicare Open Enrollment Has Begun

Have you scheduled your Yearly Medicare Plan Review? Each year, Medicare plans can make updates to what they cost and cover. Every fall, all people with Medicare are encouraged to review their current health and prescription drug coverage.

How do you know if your plan still a good plan for you? You can get personalized insurance counseling by calling your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) 1-800-551-3191 or 406-782-5555 (toll-free). SHIP counselors are trained to provide unbiased information to beneficiaries regarding their Medicare coverage. Counselors can show you plans in your area that may cost less, while still covering your medication. You can also get an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs and quality and customer service ratings from current plan members. This service is provided at no cost to beneficiaries, although donations to the program are appreciated!

If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for Extra Help to pay your prescription drug costs.

Open enrollment begins October 15th and ends December 7th; this is the one chance each year most people with Medicare have to make a change in their insurance plans for the next year. Schedule your appointment as soon as possible to give the plan time to mail your membership card, acknowledgement letter and welcome package before your coverage begins on January 1st.

We encourage all seniors to take advantage of the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7), and review their coverage to make sure that their current Prescription Drug or Medicare Advantage Plan is still the best one for them.