Open enrollment is now underway for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) volunteer counselors at Greene County Medical Center are available for free, unbiased and confidential assistance to Iowans eligible for Medicare.
“Iowans have four new Part D drug plans available to them in 2020, and many new Medicare Advantage options,” says Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen. “Medicare can be very confusing, and I encourage any Iowans eligible for Medicare – as well as their caregivers – to reach out to our SHIIP team for assistance.”
The 2020 open enrollment period runs from Oct. 15 through Dec 7. Iowans who miss the open enrollment deadline most likely would have to wait a full year before making changes to their plan.
During open enrollment, SHIIP encourages Medicare-eligible Iowans to review any notices about changes for next year, especially the “Annual Notice of Change” letter; to think about if their current plan still best meets their needs; and to compare plans even if they are satisfied with their current plan, as coverage and costs for plans can change from year to year.
Greene County Medical Center’s SHIIP volunteer counselors – Mary Tighe and Connie Burkett – are available by appointment every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am to 2 pm through the end of open enrollment, by appointment only. Persons who would like to make an appointment can call Greene County Medical Center at 515-386-2114.
