Volume 10, Issue 10
October 2019


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Our monthly newsletter addresses consumer insurance topics as well as timely information on issues affecting senior citizens in Louisiana.

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To find out if Consumer Advocacy will be in your area or to request a speaker for your organization or group, call (225) 219-0619 or send an email to: consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov

Upcoming Events   

Free Seminar on Social Security, Retirement and Medicare

Date: October 2, 2019
Time: 10:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.- Social Security Session
          11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.- Medicare Session
Location: Calcasieu Parish Library, Central Branch
301 West Claude Street, Lake Charles, LA

Free Seminar on Social Security, Retirement and Medicare

Date: October 9, 2019
Time: 10:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.- Social Security Session
          11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.- Medicare Session
Location: Caddo Parish Library, Broadmoor Branch
1212 Captain Shreve Drive, Shreveport, LA

SHIIP and COAST 2019 Medicare Counseling

Date: October 16, 2019
Time: 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Location: Covington Senior Center
19404 N. 10th Street, Covington, LA 

 

 

 

View Louisiana's Open Meetings Law on the legislative website by clicking here.

Medicare 101: Open Enrollment

The start of the month of October is a reminder Medicare Open Enrollment is just around the corner. Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their existing coverage October 15- December 7. Now is the time to determine your coverage options and compare plans. Here are a few things to keep in mind when reviewing plans:

  • Do you have health insurance from another source?
  • Do you have any chronic conditions?
  • Which doctors and hospitals do you use?
  • Which prescriptions do you need and what pharmacies do you get them from?

If you’re new to Medicare, our Senior Health staff can help you understand each plan and narrow down your options, call us at 1-800-259-5300. Also, Senior Health Director Vicki Dufrene shares important Medicare updates on our Facebook Live Series, Leave it to Vicki. Like us on Facebook to watch the videos and get Medicare updates.

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Understanding Ridesharing

Ridesharing uses mobile technology to connect passengers to drivers. Consumers can text a number or download an app to their smartphones that allows them to request a ride. The services are provided by transportation network companies (TNCs). The two major TNC’s are Uber and Lyft. TNC’s allow drivers to use their personal vehicles to transport passengers and earn extra income.

If you drive for a Transportation Network Company (TNC) you will want to understand what coverages, if any, the company has in place that will cover your risk for liability, uninsured motorist coverage, medical payments, comprehensive, collision and any other coverages that are important to you. While the TNC should have coverage in place, you may also want to you have your own coverage. Most personal auto policies exclude coverage while you are carrying a passenger for hire. However, there are insurers who may offer additional coverage –usually for an additional premium—related to how much driving you do for the TNC. You will need to shop around for those insurers. 

You will want to pay attention to the parameters of the TNC coverage. Some policies will cover the time while the TNC application is on, but no match has been made with a passenger. Other policies will also cover you while you are en route to the pick-up location. You can work with your agent to find the right policy and coverage levels for your needs.

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smoke alarm newsletter

 

Have a Plan, Stay Safe

October is fire prevention month and a time to think about you and your loved one’s safety. Here are a few tips to get your preparedness plan started:

  • Review the layout of your home.
  • Locate smoke alarms in your home and change batteries if necessary.
  • Designate a meeting plan outside your home where family members should meet in the event of an emergency.

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Office of Consumer Advocacy
(225) 219-0619 or (800) 259-5300

P.O Box 94214
www.ldi.la.gov

Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9214
consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov