LOCAL NEWS

Medicare Open Enrollment Deadline


 Medicare’s open enrollment period is ending soon. The last day is December 7th. Medicare health and drug plans can make changes each year—things like cost, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. During the open enrollment period all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to better meet their needs.
 People in a Medicare health or prescription drug plan should always review the materials their plans send them, like the “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC). By reviewing these documents, people can find out If their plans are changing and make sure their plans will still meet their needs for the following year. If they’re satisfied that their current plans will meet their needs for next year and it’s still being offered, they don’t need to do anything. They will simply continue with their current plan. If their current plan has changed or there has been a change in their life situation, changes can only be made during the open enrollment period.
 Medicare and the various supplements and companion plans can be confusing to navigate but you can get help and advice for your personal situation. Information on the different plans and comparisons of their benefits can be found by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or by looking online at Medicare.gov. Here you can find applications for Medicare, cost comparisons for various plans, information about Medicare cards and updates on the most current information. You can also find links specific to the state of Oklahoma and phone numbers for Oklahoma Medicare offices.
 You have paid for your Medicare benefits. Don’t miss out on this important addition to your personal health care.