Medicare open enrollment, which starts Oct. 15, is when Idahoans can enroll in new plans, or change existing plans. (Getty Images)
As open enrollment for Medicare will begin Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Insurance is promoting free information.
The state insurance agency is also encouraging people eligible and existing enrollees to review plan options and costs during open enrollment for the federal health program that provides health insurance for older Americans.
When is Medicare open enrollment? And what is it?
Medicare open enrollment starts Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7.
That’s when Idahoans can enroll in new plans, or change existing plans for prescription drugs or Medicare advantage, the Idaho Department of Insurance announced in a news release this month.
The Idaho Department of Insurance also says that people can protect themselves against improper marketing during open enrollment by visiting its website online, at doi.idaho.gov/shiba/medicare-improper-marketing/.
“Medicare can be confusing, and plans and one’s circumstances can change. It’s important that Idaho seniors who have Medicare take the time to review their plans during open enrollment and choose the plan that best fit their medical needs,” Idaho Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron said in the release.
How can you get free information on Medicare?
The Idaho Department of Insurance’s Senior Health Insurance Benefit Advisors, or SHIBA, can share free Medicare information with people eligible for the federal health program and existing beneficiaries, including reviewing coverage options on Medicare, the release said.
Call SHIBA’s toll free helpline at 800-247-4422.
That’s how you can talk with a SHIBA counselor, and register for an upcoming, monthly Medicare webinar workshop.
“I strongly encourage consumers to seek guidance from our SHIBA representatives and a licensed agent,” Cameron said in the release.
SHIBA is hosting a Medicare review workshop from 1:30-3 p.m. Wednesday in Pinehurst at 107 Main St., according to a separate news release by the Idaho Department of Insurance.
If you’re interested in attending, call SHIBA’s toll free helpline at 800-247-4422.
“It is important to review your Medicare plan annually,” Cameron said in the news release. “Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plans can change each year, including premiums, provider networks, co-pays / co-insurance, pharmacy networks, covered drugs and extra benefits. The SHIBA Medicare Review Workshop is a free opportunity for consumers to ensure their plan is the best plan for their current health needs.”
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