A lot can change in a year. Your health needs may have shifted, prescriptions can fall off your coverage list or your doctor may no longer be in your network. That’s why you need to take time to reassess your coverage before or during Medicare Open Enrollment, which runs from October 15th through December 7th every year.
With the window approaching, reviewing your plan early with United Way Area Agency on Aging (UWAAA) can help you avoid surprise costs and make sure your coverage still fits your needs. Through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), we offer free, confidential and totally unbiased help to compare plans and find the right one for you. Our trained staff will walk you through your benefits and help you make a decision that works for your unique situation.
Personal Support That Makes a Difference
SHIP counselors can meet with you by appointment and offer one-on-one, impartial advice based on your health needs and financial goals. Last year, for example, UWAAA’s SHIP Specialist Alfreda worked with a client who had no prescription coverage and was paying high out-of-pocket costs. After reviewing options, she recommended a Medicare Advantage Plan that lowered the client’s expenses significantly.
“Through SHIP, we help people understand their choices, stay informed about Medicare changes and make confident decisions,” said Alfreda. “It’s about giving people the knowledge they need to reach their health goals.”
SHIP counselors are available year-round to help with Medicare, supplemental insurance, Medicare Savings Programs and more. During Open Enrollment, we can help you take the next step.
Want to get a head start? Fill out our Medicare Plan Comparison form before your appointment. A SHIP counselor will review your information and walk you through coverage options that may help your healthcare dollars go further.
“Everyone is looking for ways to save money or improve coverage,” said Susan Hackney, SHIP Coordinator. “A plan comparison is an easy and effective way to do that.”
It’s important to note that we do not sell insurance. We simply offer free, unbiased information to help you make the best choice.
Key Points about Open Enrollment
- DO NOT wait. The deadline to make changes is December 15th.
- DO NOT choose a plan just because someone you know did.
- DO NOT get distracted by extra benefits you may not need.
- DO NOT rely on advice from salespeople alone.
- DO contact SHIP for trusted, no-cost guidance.
Let’s make sure your Medicare plan works for you in the year ahead. Call 1-800-AGE-LINE to schedule your consultation or to be screened and referred to other senior services.
Get Personalized Medicare Assistance
Complete our Medicare Plan Comparison Form and submit it via email or mail following the provided instructions. Once we receive your form, we’ll contact you to review your needs and explore the best options for your coverage.
Prefer to speak with someone directly? Call 1-800-AGE-LINE to schedule a phone or in-person appointment with a representative who can guide you through your choices.
