Open enrollment begins soon for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and the Iowa Insurance Division’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program is available to offer free, unbiased and confidential assistance to Iowans.
“Iowans have four new Part D drug plans available to them in 2020 and many new Medicare Advantage options,” Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen said. “Medicare can be very confusing, and I encourage any Iowans eligible for Medicare as well as caregivers to reach out to our SHIIP team for assistance before the open enrollment window closes on December 7.”
Iowans may make changes to their Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plan during open enrollment beginning Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, Iowans that miss the open enrollment deadline most likely would have to wait a full year before making changes to their plan.
“We expect to see a high percentage of the people saving money by changing plans for 2020,” SHIIP Director Kris Gross added. “Last year SHIIP helped Iowans save over $32 million by comparing Medicare Part D plans for Iowans”
SHIIP is reminding Iowans to do three important things during Medicare open enrollment:
Review their plan notice. Read any notices from their Medicare plan about changes for next year – especially the "Annual Notice of Change" letter. Review the plan's information to make sure the prescriptions they use are still covered and their medical providers and pharmacy are still in network.
Think about what matters most. Medicare health and drug plans change each year and so can health needs. Does their current plan best meet their needs?
Shop for the plans that meet your needs and fit your budget. Compare plans even if you've been satisfied with your current plan. The coverage and costs for plans can change from year to year.
For SHIIP assistance locally call Adair County Health System’s Financial and SHIIP Counselor, Kim Ehrsam at 641-743-7266. SHIIP is a free, confidential service of the State of Iowa. SHIIP counselors review all plans offered and do not promote any particular plan or company.