Submitted by R. Thurston Clark, Chairman of COA, Haddam’s Committee On Aging.
(Nov. 6, 2021) — If you are retired and are getting monthly Social Security checks you should be part of the Medicare Part A & B programs (Hospital & doctor visit coverage). Some of you have opted for “private” coverage. “Medicare Open Enrollment” occurs every year between October 15 and December7. It is a time when you can switch from US government to private coverage, or vice versa.
You probably have seen a lot of advertisements on TV talking about “Medicare Advantage” and additional services available at no cost. These are private firms offering insurance programs, for example: AARP Medicare Plans; UHCcanhelp (United Health Care); Hartford Health Care; Humana; Care Partners; Ehealth Insurance Services; Anthem; Go Health; Well Care; Dual Complete. Some of the advertisements don’t identify the firm, e.g. “Medicare Helpline”, “Medicare Coverage Helpline.” The point here is that these private companies want you to give THEM the money you now give to the Social Security Administration.
It should be obvious that they are providing this coverage at a profit, otherwise they couldn’t afford the cost of the advertisements. Some plans are better than others. Some of the services you receive will be different, i.e. you have to use their doctor, you may have to call a “Telehealth” number vs. seeing an actual doctor, prescriptions may be mailed vs. going to a pharmacy, etc.
Confused yet? My suggestion is to do some research before you switch and seek help:
- If you have a computer www.Medicare.gov will lead you to “SHIP” State Health Insurance assistance Programs.
- Haddam seniors can contact Jessica Condil, Director of Senior & Social Services at 860-345-4621. She’ll give you a time when you can come in and talk to her. The town of Haddam doesn’t offer any kind of program, but she can help you understand what “Open Enrollment” is all about.
- Many pharmacies will help you, e.g. in Haddam contact Nutmeg Pharmacy at 860-345-3607. They’ll give you a time to come in and talk to you. This is similar to what Jessica will do for you. You can also contact CVS or Walgreens if you prefer.
