MEDICARE

MEDICARE

Enrollment help

Medicare benefits check-ups are offered for free at home by appointment with an Area Agency on Aging long-term care consultant and free clinics are scheduled. The enrollment period ends Dec. 7. Clinic dates are:

Columbiana: 10 a.m., Tuesday, Columbiana County Career & Tech Center, Computer Lab A, 9364 state Route 45, Lisbon.

Mahoning County: 10 a.m., Nov. 15, Youngstown Senior Independence Center, 1110 Fifth Ave., Youngstown.

Trumbull County: 10 a.m., Dec. 2, by appointment, Girard Multi-Generational Center, 443 Trumbull Ave, Girard, Call 330-545-6596.

CONSUMER TIPS

Get started early. Open enrollment runs until Dec. 7, but take time to review all options.

Pay attention to your mail. Residents now will start to get a lot of information about Part D and Medicare Advantage plans; or from Social Security or Medicare asking you to verify your income or informing you of changes to your subsidy.

Review. Many people are happy with their current coverage, and would rather not check what other options are available. But this is an important step that can save you money. People should look at the four “Cs”— cost, coverage, convenience and customer service.

Source: National Council on Aging, Area Agency on Aging 11