 During open enrollment, eligible adults can adjust
Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug coverage, move from
original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan - or vice versa -
switch between Medicare Advantage plans, join a Medicare
Prescription Drug Plan, or switch or drop existing drug plans
without penalty; all of which can be overwhelming and confusing.
With over 350 SHIP offices across Illinois, the agency stands ready
to refer clients to their closest site, which can schedule an
appointment to assist with open enrollment.
“I encourage seniors to make an appointment at their earliest
convenience, because as during every open enrollment season, we
anticipate it’ll be very busy with people seeking help,” said Jean
Bohnhoff, Director of IDoA. “Our SHIP counselors are ready to help
you make sense of the complicated Medicare system and to make the
best choices for your healthcare as we prioritize respecting
yesterday, supporting today, and hoping for tomorrow.”
SHIP counselors work through the Medicare.gov system to help seniors
and people with disabilities make the best choices for their
individual situation. Contact SHIP, by calling 1-800-252-8966,
weekdays 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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 For more information about
SHIP, including a list of SHIP locations, visit the website at:
http://www.illinois.gov/aging/ ship/Pages/default.aspx.
To compare 2019 drug and health plans
on your own and to find out more about Medicare options, including
preventive services now covered, visit the federal website at:
www.medicare.gov.
Medicare customer service representatives are available 24/7 at:
1-800-633-4227.
SHIP is not affiliated with any insurance company, and counselors do
not sell or solicit any type of insurance. SHIP counselors in the
field help seniors and people with disabilities on Medicare
understand the options available to them. They also educate and
answer questions about Medicare plans and options.
[Illinois Department on Aging]
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