DIVISION OF INTERGENERATIONAL SERVICES

Once a year Medicare beneficiaries have an opportunity to select a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan in which to enroll or replace an existing plan. The Medicare open enrollment period begins October 15, 2012 and ends December 7, 2012. Coverage selected during this time becomes effective as of January 1, 2013.

Medicare Part D coverage may change from year to year, including cost of premiums, co-pays, drugs included in plans and tier levels. It is recommended that beneficiaries review their current plans and compare coverage to other plans.

Medicare beneficiaries and their family members are invited to attend a free information forum to be held at four locations in October. Representatives from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program will help participants review and compare plans and make informed choices about which plan is best suited to their needs.

Free Information Forum

Due to Hurricane Sandy the October 30 forum has been rescheduled for:
Tuesday, November 27 at 6 PM
Atlantic County Library System/Egg Harbor Township
1 Swift Avenue, Egg Harbor Township

In addition to the forums counselors from Atlantic County’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) are available at 1-888-426-9243 or (609) 645-5965, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Counselors can provide assistance in comparing plans, switching plans and enrolling in a plan, as well as applying for prescription assistance with the State of New Jersey and the Social Security Administration. SHIP counselors provide free, unbiased information to Medicare beneficiaries or their representatives.