Johnston Senior Center officials this week issued an important reminder the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period is just around the corner.
Tony Zompa, the JSC’s executive director, said the nationally-accredited center has scheduled two open enrollment events during the coming weeks.
“We do this every year,” Zompa explained. “We feel it’s necessary to get the word out to all seniors concerning the Medicare Open Enrollment period that actually runs from Sunday, Oct. 15 through Friday, Dec. 1, 2017.”
He announced that those two events, which will again feature representatives from several health care groups, are scheduled for Friday, Nov. 3 and Friday, Nov. 1 and will be held inside the JSC’s multi-purpose room.
“These two events are always very, very informative when it comes to Medicare,” Zompa said. “We’ve had great response in previous years and expect that will hold true again this time around.”
He urged people to call the JSC to make an appointment.
Madeline Ravenelle, who heads the JSC’s Social Services department, will soon begin taking reservations for those who’d like to make a change in their Medicare health coverage. She also noted that all sessions are a one-on-one only consultation.
Ravenelle, who will again be assisted by Amy DeBiasio, can be reached by calling (401) 944-3343 Ext. 103 during regular business hours that are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. DeBiasio’s extension at the JSC is 112.
“Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period is the time of year when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage,” Zompa explained. “Open Enrollment runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 11 and any changes you make will take effect on Jan. 1, 2018.”
He also urged people to review their current Medicare and drug coverage and protect themselves from plan marketing violations and enrollment fraud. He urged people to take action.
Zompa encouraged people to review any notices they receive form Medicare or their plan and decide if they want to change their coverages. He said people should contact SHIP (Senior Healthy Insurance Program) for assistance reviewing their choices. SHIP counselors provide unbiased consulting to help you understand and assess your options.
Even if people are happy with their coverage, they should explore possible options for health and drug plans, as costs change each year and they may find a less expensive plan that works.
Those interested should contact SHIP if they suspect marketing violations or fraud and they should make sure they understand a plan’s benefits before they enroll. People are urged to contact their POINT Network Partner for Open Enrollment and at the JSC its Ravenelle.
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