With the Dec. 7 deadline looming for Medicare Part D open enrollment, Champaign-Urbana area seniors are reminded that options are available for reviewing their annual plans.
The open enrollment period is vital for Medicare participants to review existing drug prescription coverage and make any necessary alterations. It is common for plans to change from year-to-year, and any changes in a participant’s prescriptions can also necessitate a comprehensive review.
“Particularly the prescription coverage is one of the main things we look at during this time,” said Julie Schubach, director of the Senior Resource Center at Family Service in Champaign. “Their premiums change, the formularies change, all their drugs may not be covered. There’s just a lot of factors that go into their plans.”
Since open enrollment began on Oct. 15, the Senior Resource Center has offered in-person reviews, structured so that the highest precautions are taken due to COVID-19.
Schubach said office appointments utilize a smaller conference room that allows for proper social distancing. It features a large TV on which the case worker can display information that is easily seen from across the room. That allows the case worker to explore the Plan Finder tool on the Medicare.gov website, displayed on the TV monitor, and provide plan options from which a participant can choose.
“It’s a process of going through that with them and talking through what their options are,” Schubach said.
Masks and proper protective equipment are used, and surfaces are sanitized for each visit.
The center also has over-the-phone and in-home options available, which also is accomplished through proper social distancing and masks. To set up an appointment, call (217) 352-5100.
The Senior Resource Center is not the only C-U entity offering Medicare reviews. Among the others:
CRIS Healthy Aging: (217) 355-1543, website
OSF Faith in Action: (217) 337-2022, website, email
Champaign County Healthcare Consumers: (217) 352-6533, website, email