Edhat Staff(SANTA BARBARA, CA)– Medicare Open Enrollment is fast approaching and there are changes to plan structures, payments, and available insurers that individuals should be aware of. Every year from October 15 to December 7 all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to better meet their needs. To help the Santa Barbara community with the upcoming Medicare changes and understanding the process, the Santa Barbara Central Library and the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens‘ Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program are hosting a presentation and Q&A on Tuesday, October 10 from 4:30 – 6:30 PM. Whether individuals are navigating Medicare for themselves or for another it is critical to have all the information to get the needed benefits.
Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program (HICAP) exists to provide free information and counseling about Medicare so that individuals, couples, and families can make informed decisions. HICAP is a statewide network of nonprofit organizations authorized by state legislation to provide free, independent, unbiased information and is the only agency authorized by the California Department of Aging to provide Medicare counseling. Funding for HICAP comes from the Older Californians Act from the Area Agency on Aging and the State Health Insurance Assistance program from the Administration for Community Living.
In preparation for the 2018 Medicare changes individuals should look for changes in their existing plan, check their health network, and get help and information now.
Information about Santa Barbara Public Library System locations, hours, events, and programs is available at SBPLibrary.org. All Library programs are free and open to the public.
