Medicare open enrollment begins Thursday, October 15, and continues through December 7. The New York State Office for the Aging is reminding beneficiaries that free, objective help is available as they review health-plan and prescription-drug coverage for 2027. Changes selected during the enrollment period take effect January 1.
The agency says a careful review may be especially important this year because Medicare Advantage plan availability, costs, provider networks, prescription coverage and other benefits can change. Even people who are satisfied with their current coverage are encouraged to make sure their doctors, facilities, pharmacies and medications will still be covered next year.
New York’s Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program, known as HIICAP, provides local counseling through trained staff. The program helps about 250,000 New Yorkers each year with Medicare decisions, applications and coverage questions. Residents can reach the HIICAP helpline at 1-800-701-0501. The counseling service is available throughout the year, not only during open enrollment.
Counselors can also screen income-eligible beneficiaries for the Medicare Savings Program. NYSOFA estimates that eligible people who enroll can save as much as $8,100 a year on costs such as Part B premiums, copayments and deductibles. Enrollment in that program also brings automatic enrollment in Extra Help for prescription-drug costs.
NYSOFA is also warning beneficiaries about fraud and misleading marketing during open enrollment. Residents should not give their Medicare number or other personal information to unsolicited callers or unexpected visitors. Anyone who suspects fraud can contact Medicare at 1-800-633-4227. The Medicare Rights Center also offers assistance at 1-800-333-4114.
