Experts in Medicare enrollment had several pieces of advice for local seniors ahead of the start of the Medicare open enrollment period during a special Medicare Town Hall Tuesday evening.
North Central Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging Director Julie Govert Walter advised seniors to “do their homework” before enrolling in any Medicare plans.
Govert-Walter adds that seniors also need to be more aware of the differences in “traditional Medicare plans” and the newly introduced Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage. She explains the major difference is that Part C is a “privatization” of Medicare meaning there are different cost structures.
Newman Regional Health Denial Management Coordinator Joilene Sandoval says when it comes to traditional vs Medicare Advantage plans, it is extremely important that seniors know everything that is covered under their policy.
Tuesday’s town hall was the product of a partnership between Newman, Haag Pharmacy, Senior Health Insurance Counselors for Kansas, K-State Research and Extension and the Commission on Veterans Affairs. The Medicare open enrollment period begins Sunday, October 15 and will continue through Thursday, December 7.
