Easy Tips on Understanding Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare open enrollment runs from October 15th to December 7th, 2015. Now is your opportunity to enroll in a new Medicare plan. You can learn important eligibility details about Medicare Parts A and B here and we also encourage you to view this helpful tip sheet on understanding Parts C and D enrollment periods.

One issue facing seniors is a potential premium increase on their 2016 Part B premiums. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal entitled "Medicare Rates Set to Soar" explains how seniors may be affected if Congress fails to act:

Congressional lawmakers so far have failed to agree on a way to stave off an unprecedented premium increase for millions of Medicare recipients for 2016.

That is creating uncertainty for many seniors on Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient care such as doctor’s visits. About 30% of the roughly 52 million people enrolled in Part B could see a 52% rise in those premiums if Congress and the Obama administration don’t find a way to freeze or reduce the increase.

In a related WSJ article, Anne Tergesen suggests "What To Do" in order to offset the potential premium increases.

Do you need assistance navigating Medicare? We can help you compare plans, make sure your drugs are covered, and save money (some plans even have $0 dollar copays). JS Downey Insurance Service specializes in helping seniors with Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans (MAPD's), and PART D.