“What You Need to Know Before Open Enrollment” Informational Meeting

For Immediate Release

MATTOON – A “what you need to know before open enrollment” informational meeting is set for 10 a.m. October 1 at the Mattoon Public Library, 1600 Charleston Avenue. The session is led by Laura Severson, a library volunteer and a retired gerontologist.

Open enrollment for Medicare runs from October 15 to December 7.

New and existing Medicare-eligible individuals often have questions about the process and what information they should have to make the best decision for their situation.

Severson is a certified SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) counselor. As a counselor for the Illinois Department of Aging., she is not affiliated with any insurance company and SHIP counselors do not sell or solicit any type of insurance. SHIP counselors advise, look up information and explain information to their clients (for more about SHIP go to www.ilaging.illinois.gov/ship.html.

Severson will cover information about what to expect and what individuals should know about open enrollment, and then welcome questions. The Coles County Lifespan Center will provide small drinks and snacks.

Registration is recommended by going to mattoonlibrary.org or by calling 234-1720.

“Medicare health can be intimidating,” Severson said. “This session is designed to help people understand and navigate the process to help them make the best decision for their life situation.”

The program is part of the library’s Ask-Share-Know series in which information is freely provided by knowledgeable, credentialed professionals. The session is open to the public. There is no requirement to live in Mattoon or have a library card.

The session is geared towards anyone entering Medicare but also most useful to those already on a Medicare plan. Questions are welcome from people in either situation.

In general, Severson suggests that as you begin to gather your documents and the stuff you are getting in the mail, pay attention to what is coming in and do not complete any forms until someone who does Medicare sees it first. You can also bring it into the library on October 1.

There will be some handouts, coffee, maybe a snack and lots of information available that day. As a reminder, the Coles County Lifespan Center will be taking appointments starting September 15 for Open Enrollment.