State Office For Aging Reminding NYer’s Free Medicare Counseling is Available

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) is reminding New Yorker’s of free and objective counseling that is available to help Medicare beneficiaries in navigating their available options during the Medicare opening enrollment period which begins today, October 15th and continues through December 7th. 

“During Medicare Open Enrollment we understand you’re bombarded with advertisements, and it can be overwhelming – that’s why NYSOFA’s network of HIICAP counselors is available to provide free and objective information to help you make your best health insurance choices. This service empowers you to make coverage decisions that will lead to improved health care as well as benefits and subsidies that you may be eligible for, such as the Medicare Savings Program, to help you keep more of your hard-earned money.” Said NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen. 

According to the NYSOFA, Medicare’s open enrollment period is a time where beneficiaries are allowed to make changes in their health plan or prescription drug coverage and other options. Changes are effective at the start of the New Year, January 1st. The NYSOFA added their health insurance information, counseling, and assistance program, providing assistance to 220,000 New Yorkers every year in helping them understand Medicare decisions.

Residents who participate in the program by the NYSOFA, will also receive assistance in applying for programs that will save older adults out-of-pocket costs including co-payments, premiums, and deductibles. The free and objective assistance is provided locally by trained counselors. For assistance, call the helpline at 1-800-701-0501. More information about HIICAP is on NYSOFA’s website.