Missouri Offering Assistance as Medicare Open Enrollment Begins

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - As open enrollment for Medicare begins later this month, the state of Missouri is offering help to residents navigating their coverage options.

The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance is encouraging residents to review their current plans and costs and, if needed, make changes to their Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage coverage. Medicare-eligible Missourians and their caregivers can receive free help through the Missouri State Health Insurance Assistance Program, known as Missouri SHIP. The program also assists individuals with limited incomes in determining whether they qualify for low-income subsidies or Medicare Savings Programs to help reduce prescription drug costs.

State officials recommend reviewing plans carefully, noting that it can save consumers money. However, they also warn that scams often increase during this time, with fraudsters using deceptive sales tactics to target seniors. Open enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7.

Missourians can get assistance year-round from Missouri SHIP by calling 1-800-390-3330 or visiting missouriship.org.