BOISE, Idaho — The Medicare Annual Enrollment period is set to open Tuesday, October 15 and ends Saturday, December 7.
Medicare health and prescription drug plan costs and coverage can change every year. SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) highly recommends people with Medicare review their coverage before the enrollment period ends.
“Medicare can be confusing. However, Idaho consumers have options for plans that best fit their medical needs,” said Idaho Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron. “I strongly encourage consumers to seek guidance from our SHIBA representatives and a licensed agent.”
Failing to compare and review coverage plan options increases the risk of spending more money on unnecessary health care costs down the road. In addition, with coverage changes, medications and services may no longer be covered by a previous year’s health plan.
Certified Medicare Counselors from The Department of Insurance’s SHIBA Program will be available across the state to review plans and discuss new options for 2020 with Medicare beneficiaries. In short, SHIBA counselors help people make informed decisions about their specific health insurance needs.
Counselors are available for meetings in Boise, Jerome, Mountain Home, Nampa, Parma, Fairfield, Cambridge, McCall, Gooding, Blackfoot, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Preston, Coeur d'Alene, Moscow, Kellogg, St. Maries, Lewiston, Sand Point and Post Falls. A list of events from the Department of Insurance can be found here. You can also set up an appointment by calling 1-800-247-4422.
