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It’s time to plan for becoming a Medicare beneficiary.

Davie Senior Services SHIIP counselors know that Medicare can be overwhelming, and beneficiaries have many questions regarding options.

The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program is a division of the NC Department of Insurance. SHIIP provides free, unbiased information about Medicare and other insurance-related issues.

Senior services has trained SHIIP counselors to help navigate the Medicare process and provide counseling free of charge.

SHIIP has created a handout meant to help beneficiaries navigate the Medicare system and initial enrollment process.  The handout, “The Road to Medicare,” outlines decisions that need to be made and the options available within the Medicare system.  To obtain a free copy of “The Road to Medicare,” call Davie Senior Services at 336-753-6230, call SHIIP toll free at 1-855-408-1212 or visit SHIIP’s website at www.ncshiip.com.

In addition to those who are new to Medicare, SHIIP can help current recipients.

The annual Medicare Open Enrollment period for beneficiaries who are already receiving Medicare is Oct. 15-Dec. 7. A SHIIP representative can help you compare plans and make changes that may lower your Medicare costs.

Medicare beneficiaries could save by evaluating eligibility for low-income subsidies, choosing the best Part D drug plan based on medications and preferred pharmacy, and/or exploring available Medicare Advantage plans.

According to data received from the state SHIIP office, Davie County’s SHIIP counselors were able to save Medicare beneficiaries who live in Davie County $154,830 in 2022.

If you are new to Medicare or need to re-evaluate your existing Medicare Part D drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan, call Davie County Senior Services at 336-753-6230 to schedule an appointment with a SHIIP counselor.