Counselors are on hand and ready to help area residents through the Medicare Open Enrollment. The Iowa Insurance Division’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a free, unbiased and confidential resource for Iowans. Counselors across the state will explain Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans to those interested. “Iowans have nine new Part D drug plans available to them in 2019 and many new Medicare Advantage options,” says Doug Ommen, Iowa Insurance Commissioner. “Medicare can be very confusing, and I encourage any Iowans eligible for Medicare as well as caregivers to reach out to our SHIIP team for assistance before the open enrollment window closes,” Ommen adds. The enrollment period will end Dec. 7, and those missing the deadline will most likely have to wait a full year before they can make changes to their plan. Last year, SHIIP helped save Iowans more than $26 million by comparing plans, and that number is expected to be higher this year. Details on the program and how to find a counselor in your area can be found through the contact information included with this story on our website.
