Des Moines, Iowa — Open enrollment is underway for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and the Iowa Insurance Division’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program or “SHIIP” is reminding Iowans that they are available to offer free, unbiased and confidential assistance.
According to Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen, Iowans have four new Part D drug plans available to them in 2020 and many new Medicare Advantage options. He says that Medicare can be very confusing, and he encourages any Iowans eligible for Medicare as well as caregivers to reach out to the SHIIP team for assistance before the open enrollment window closes on December 7th.
Iowans may make changes to their Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plan during open enrollment beginning October 15, 2019, through December 7, 2019. Iowans that miss the open enrollment deadline most likely would have to wait a full year before making changes to their plan.
SHIIP Director Kris Gross says that they expect to see a high percentage of the people saving money by changing plans for 2020. Last year, says Gross, SHIIP helped Iowans save over $32 million by comparing Medicare Part D plans for Iowans.
SHIIP is reminding Iowans to do three important things during Medicare open enrollment. Review your plan notice, think about what matters most to you, and shop for the plans that meet your needs and fit your budget.
SHIIP has counselors all around the state that can assist with comparing plans. You can reach them at 1-800-351- 4664 (TTY 800-735-2942) to get help near you. It’s free.
