The Medicare Open Enrollment period is currently underway until Dec.7, and there’s a few things you should know.
Medicare is the federal health insurance program that provides coverage for people 65 or over as well as people under 65 with a qualifying disability.
Medicare beneficiaries may choose to receive their benefits through traditional Medicare or through a Medicare Advantage plan managed by a private health insurer.
The Medicare Open Enrollment period is the yearly time when individuals eligible for Medicare can join, drop or switch a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or Medicare Drug Plan (Part D) for coverage that begins the following year.
This year, any changes made will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024.
Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) offers free, confidential counseling and assistance about Medicare to beneficiaries, families and caregivers. The program’s volunteer counselors provide one-on-one sessions to help you make an informed decision about benefits.
If you are interested in meeting with a SHIIP counselor during the Open Enrollment period , visit the Iowa SHIIP website to find a counselor near you. The Dallas County SHIIP counselors offer services from the Dallas County Health Department in Adel at 515-993-3750 or the Dallas County Hospital in Perry at 515-465-7578. Call to make an appointment.
The Open Enrollment period occurs every year from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, so if you are not ready to make a change this year, consider doing so next year. Medicare beneficiaries should review their Medicare coverage every year during this time to ensure they are on the plan that best fits their healthcare and financial needs.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
