Medicare Open Enrollment ends December 7

The annual open enrollment period for Medicare D and Medicare Advantage plans start October 15, 2019, and ends December 7, 2019, to change your plan effective January 1, 2020.

The plan you are currently enrolled in should send you a packet of information in October regarding the plan's benefit for 2020. Each year Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans can restructure their benefits. They are allowed to change their premium cost, deductibles, copayments and what drugs they will cover.

If you are happy with the plan you have, just follow the instructions in the packet you receive to keep the plan - you may have to do nothing.

Remember that it is a good idea to check your plan carefully each year. Contact your local SHIP Counselor if you want help in re-evaluating your plan and comparing it to other plans available. People in Phillips County can contact Suzanne Koss at 390-0786.

SHIP Counselors can also help you apply for assistance in paying for Medicare Part D premiums if your income and resources are within the limits for those programs.