Medicare Open Enrollment Dates Change for 2011
Yearly open enrollment dates for the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) have changed. The new enrollment dates for 2011 will be October 15 – December 7. The new open enrollment period will better ensure that individuals have their membership cards in hand and receive uninterrupted healthcare coverage on January 1, 2012.
The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) of the Louisiana Department of Insurance is encouraging beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug plans to review their current health and drug plan coverage for any changes their plans may be making for 2012 before the annual open enrollment period begins on October 15.
During the open enrollment period, beneficiaries can choose to change plans or shift from Medicare Advantage to Traditional Medicare. Counselors with SHIIP and partnering organizations across the state will be available to help Medicare beneficiaries with choosing Medicare healthcare plans. SHIIP counseling is free, and counselors can assist seniors on a variety of topics related to health insurance such as assistance with claims, supplemental and long-term insurance policy comparison, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare supplement insurance, and the Medicare appeals process.
For any additional or early assistance in reviewing or choosing a Medicare coverage option, contact a SHIIP counselor today at 1-800-259-5300, visit the Louisiana Department of Insurance at www.ldi.la.gov or visit www.medicare.gov.
-30-
