Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older and certain people with a disability. Medicare can be confusing and complicated. Not knowing the Medicare basics and when to enroll can lead to increased costs and missed opportunities. The Senior LinkAge Line is Minnesota’s federally designated State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). They provide fair, unbiased assistance to help people navigate Medicare and choose the plan that is best for them. Call the Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433 for help with Medicare or to make a referral.

Medicare 101 is a two-hour class for those who are new to Medicare as well as, current beneficiaries, family caregivers, and professionals.

During the presentation you will learn the basics of:

• Coverage gap
• Eligibility for extra help with prescription drug costs
• Medicare enrollment process
• Enrollment options and timeline
• Medicare.gov website
• Health Care Choice for Minnesotans on Medicare

Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment period runs October 15 through December 7 each year. The open enrollment period allows you to make changes to your current Medicare plan and your Part D drug plan. The changes you make will take effect January 1 of the following year.

During Medicare Open Enrollment, it’s a good idea to evaluate your needs. Senior LinkAge Line specialists are there to help beneficiaries and their caregivers. They can walk you through your options and answer any questions you may have. Call 800-333-2433 for assistance over the phone or to make an appointment for an in-person meeting at enrollment sites located throughout the region. To make sure that your call goes as smoothly and quickly as possible, be sure to have the following items ready when you call:

• Your Medicare card
• Your username and password for the Medicare.gov website
• A current list of medications you are taking including dosages and quantity