November Blog – Learn more about Medicare Open Enrollment and MMAP

The Senior Alliance, MMAP, and What You Need to Know About Medicare Open Enrollment

Each year, Medicare fall open enrollment begins on October 15 and ends on December 7. During this period, those age 65 and older who have enrolled in a Medicare plan can join, switch, or drop a plan. Coverage will then begin in January, assuming a plan request is made before the end of the open enrollment period. 

For many, navigating the ins and outs of Medicare can be confusing and frustrating. The Senior Alliance is here to help. We connect older adults and adults with disabilities to the programs, services, and resources that enable them to thrive. When it comes to Medicare, the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) is available to help take the confusion out of your Medicare options—and The Senior Alliance can help you get connected. 

Medicare Health Plans

Medicare is federally provided health insurance for adults age 65 and older, adults with disabilities, and those suffering from End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). It covers specific services:

  • Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers in-patient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. 
  • Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers certain doctor’s visits, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventative services. 
  • Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, including many recommended vaccines. 

There are primarily two options for getting Medicare coverage – original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Information about these plans is available on the Medicare website. The open enrollment period allows you to make changes to your plan before the next year’s coverage begins. 

Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program 

For those interested in changing their plans, MMAP is a free and unbiased service that helps Michigan residents navigate their Medicare choices. The program doesn’t sell Medicare plans but rather answers questions and gives you the information you need to make the best decision you can about your Medicare health insurance, maximize your benefits, and increase your savings. 

MMAP can help you: 

  • Understand Medicare and Medicaid
  • Compare or enroll in Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage
  • Review Medicare Supplemental Plans
  • Apply for the Extra Help program, which assists with the cost of Medicare Part D
  • Apply for a Medicare Savings Program, which pays your Medicare premium
  • Review Medicare summary notices
  • Identify and report Medicare and Medicaid fraud, abuse, and scams via the Senior Medicare Patrol

MMAP counselors are highly-trained, highly specialized, and certified in Medicare and Medicaid health benefits, as well as fraud counseling. They are unbiased and not connected with any insurance company, nor are they authorized to sell insurance. MMAP counselors are on your side. 

The Senior Alliance can connect you with an MMAP counselor today. Visit our website for more information or call our toll-free number at 1-(800)-815-1112

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