NM AGING & LONG-TERM SERVICES DEPARTMENT NEWS

Medicare Open Enrollment continues through December 7.  People who already have Medicare can make changes during this time, such as switching prescription drug plans, changing to a new Medicare Advantage plan, going from Original Medicare to an Advantage plan or vice versa.  For those not sure what their options are or who need help figuring out the best plan, free, unbiased information and assistance is available from the New Mexico State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 800-432-2080.

One Los Alamos resident who received SHIP assistance says, “The Aging and Long Term Services Department SHIP counselor helped me find the Medicare Advantage plan that best fits my mom’s needs. They asked questions in order to find her exact needs, found plans that fit that need, and gave the guidance on how to proceed. This guidance helped us through the process in such a stress free and easy way, knowing that they had her best interests in mind throughout the process!”

This year, some Medicare prescription drug plans are offering special insulin savings.  With one of these plans, costs for certain insulin drugs is capped at $35 per month.  A SHIP counselor can help identify and provide details for these plans.  Appointments are available by calling 800-432-2080.

SHIP counselors will also screen New Mexicans for programs that help with Medicare Part B premiums and drug costs.  Anyone interested in finding out how to lower their Medicare costs and find the best plan for their situation can get free, unbiased assistance by calling 800-432-2080.  December 7, 2020 is the last day to make changes for 2021 Medicare coverage.