There’s a lot of publicity this time of year to remind folks to check their smoke detector batteries when Daylight Savings Time is over. It makes sense to tie that chore to something that occurs on a regular basis (why not Valentine’s Day?), but I almost always forget to do it. It seems there are always other more pressing duties on the “to do” list, like finishing up in the yard, switching out those summer clothes or cleaning the gutters.
Another reminder that comes this time of year is mail regarding the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) that’s bombarding the mailboxes of Medicare-eligible individuals. While annoying and overwhelming, it’s incredibly important for recipients to review their health care coverage every year to see if their current plan still meets their needs. The days of one size fits all are over.
If you are a caregiver, a change in your loved one’s situation may indicate the need for different coverage. Have they started traveling more? Less? Did their medication needs change, including new prescriptions or treatments for a chronic illness? Did their primary care physician retire or relocate? Did their current plan change, and does it still suit their needs? It’s time to explore your options.
We know you’re busy, so let’s look at a few resources:
- A great one is Medicare online (www.medicare.gov). This site is relatively easy to navigate and packed with information. You can check your plan’s star rating while you’re at it.
- Another great resource is your state’s Department on Aging. They offer impartial counseling services for people who are Medicare-eligible.
- Your local Area Agency on Aging is a gold mine. Find one near you at http://www.n4a.org/.
- Our Health Alliance website https://healthalliance.org/medicare/ is easy to navigate and gives a nice overview of the options we offer in your county.
Once again, the AEP for Medicare is October 15 until December 7 for a January 1, 2024, effective date. The sooner you review your needs and gather information, the better equipped you will be to make an informed choice. When you are done, you can move onto something really important – like cleaning out the junk drawer in the kitchen. I know, I know; that’s not going to happen! LOL.
Ashley Wicker is a community and broker liaison at Reid Health Alliance. Born and raised in Fayette County, she is a devoted mother who enjoys the outdoors, cooking, and the arts.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!