Medicare open enrollment is coming. Beneficiaries should review their plans.

submitted by Julie Edgar, AgeWays

During Medicare Open Enrollment, from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, Medicare beneficiaries may drop or change their prescription drug plan (Part D) or Medicare Advantage plan without penalty. They may also have their Medicare plan reviewed by a certified, unbiased counselor to make sure it fits their healthcare needs and budget in 2027.

AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services’ SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) offers free phone, virtual, and in-person appointments with certified counselors during Open Enrollment. The SHIP Medicare Assistance Program is grant-funded. Counselors are not affiliated with health insurance companies.

SHIP Open Enrollment counseling assistance appointments are available by calling the statewide number – 800-803-7174 – or by calling AgeWays at 800-852-7795. Go to ageways.org for a full list of dates and times.

AgeWays serves seniors and caregivers in Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, and Washtenaw counties.

by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.