ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Counselors from Atlantic County’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) are available to review and assist Medicare plan beneficiaries in making informed choices about which plan is best suited to their needs and which programs could help save them money during the current open enrollment period.
The Medicare open enrollment began October 15 and ends December 7, 2019. Coverage selected during this time becomes effective as of January 1, 2020.
Whether enrolled in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, people can still have many of the same benefits and security they currently have, including certain preventive benefits and cancer screenings that are available at no cost when provided by qualified and participating health professionals. The annual wellness visit allows people to sit down with their doctor to discuss health care needs and the best ways to stay healthy.
For those who qualify for Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD), the state will pay the Part D monthly drug company premium and reduce the beneficiary’s share to $5 for generic drugs and $7 for name brand drugs. The Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) program pays the monthly Part B premium.
To apply for any of these state programs, contact Atlantic County SHIP counselors at 1-888-426-9243 or (609) 645-5965, Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. to schedule an in-person appointment or telephone conference.
Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources may be eligible for Extra Help paying for their prescription drug coverage costs. To learn more about Extra Help assistance visit www.socialsecurity.gov/i1020 or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY, 1-800-325-0778) or an Atlantic County SHIP counselor at 1-888-426-9243.
To view and compare available plan options visit www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24-hours a day/7 days a week. TTY users may call 1-877-486-2048.
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