Medicare open enrollment continues through Dec. 7; caution urged
Special to The Clinton Courier
The open enrollment period for Medicare runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this time, Medicare participants may change their Medicare health or prescription coverage for the upcoming year. While the Mississippi Insurance Department (MID) does not regulate Medicare, MID is available to answer questions for those who have concerns or are confused by the open enrollment process.
“Many carriers are updating their plans or leaving certain areas due to rising costs and new federal rules,” said Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. “If your plan is affected, don’t worry—you’ll be eligible for a special enrollment period to choose a new plan that works for you. Mississippi has many options for Medicare, with nearly one hundred providers in the market.”
More information on choosing the right plan is available on the MID website at www.mid.ms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MedigapPolicy.pdf.
Don’t be scammed. Be cautious when contacted about private Medicare coverage.
• Only work with state-licensed agents— their information can be verified with the Mississippi Insurance Department by calling 601-359-2012.
• To find a complete list of Medicare agents or brokers near you, visit MedicareSupp.org, a free resource. From there, enter your ZIP code to see a comprehensive list.
• Do not accept coverage from unsolicited contact (door-to-door, cold calls or approaching in public).
• Sales visits require an appointment and prior agreement on the product type; agents cannot sell other products.
• Agents cannot sell non-health insurance products during Medicare presentations.
• Sales are prohibited in healthcare settings, educational events or via free meals at promotions.
• Never share personal info (Social Security Number, bank, or credit card) with unverified agents; payment should be by bill, not online.
• Only provide personal info to licensed agents once verified for enrollment and billing.
Additional resources:
• Visit Medicare.gov.
• Get free, personalized counseling from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). The Mississippi number is 1-844-822-4622.
• Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
