Medicare Open Enrollment Begins Oct. 15

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Area Agency on Aging is reminding seniors that the annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period begins Oct. 15 and closes Dec. 7.

Open Enrollment is a time for Medicare-eligible adults to consider what medical benefits matter to them and compare available options for 2024. During this period, beneficiaries can join, switch or drop Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug coverage. Any changes made during the Open Enrollment period will take effect Jan. 1.

Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) counselors are available through the Franklin County Area Agency on Aging to offer guidance and assistance to older adults when it comes to Medicare and Open Enrollment. PA MEDI counselors are staff or volunteers specially trained to walk seniors through their options and assist them in making informed health insurance decisions that best fit their needs and budgets.

PA MEDI counselors do not sell Medicare insurance products, nor do they endorse or recommend any specific insurance companies, policies or agents. Instead, they provide free, confidential, unbiased and personalized support to seniors as they compare Medigap, Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans.

“Choosing the right Medicare Advantage Plan can be challenging. PA MEDI is here to help. We help you compare plans, look for cost savings, and even help you enroll in a plan that best fits your needs,” said Susan Neff, PA MEDI Director. “PA MEDI counselors can also help determine if you may be eligible for any of Pennsylvania’s Medicare cost-savings programs like PACE, Extra Help and the Medicare Savings Program.”

“Just as an individual’s medical needs and priorities can change from one year to the next, so too can Medicare and prescription drug plans,” said Tawnya Hurley, director of the Franklin County Area Agency on Aging. “Open Enrollment is a great time for seniors to review their premiums, co-pays, provider networks, covered prescriptions and supplemental benefits and make any necessary changes to best suit their needs before a new year begins.”

Medicare-eligible individuals can call the Franklin County Area Agency on Aging at 717-263-2153 or visit the office at 600 Norland Ave., Suite 11, Chambersburg, to schedule a free, personalized session with a PA MEDI counselor. Information on Open Enrollment as well as helpful tips, frequently asked questions, and a list of local PA MEDI events can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s website, www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/medicare-counseling.

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