It’s open enrollment time for Medicare plans and the landscape is more confusing than ever. In Colorado alone, there are fifty-seven Medicare Advantage plans in total, and while it’s nice to have options, many find it difficult to sort through so many choices. You can’t turn on the TV or open a newspaper without seeing ads for companies offering their version of a plan. Adding to the challenge, even current plans are subject to annual premium increases or drug list changes.
“It’s really important for people to get objective, unbiased information when choosing a plan”, explains Lauren Bell, a Medicare counselor at the Denver Regional Council of Governments. “We want people to know they can reach out to us and get free counseling to help choose the right plan for their needs.”
Open enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, 2020, and it’s only during this period that Medicare-eligible individuals can change plans without penalty. Changes to a new plan take effect January 1 the following year. “One of the hardest calls we receive come in January when people find out their Medicare plans have changed and there isn’t anything we can do about it; but even if you do find yourself in this situation, SHIP encourages you to still call to evaluate your options,” Bell says.
Through their certified State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), the Denver Regional Council of Governments offers free assistance. They can be reached by phone at 303-480-6835 or online at drcog.org/SHIP.