Get Help With Medicare 2021 Open Enrollment In Phoenix

PHOENIX, AZ — If you need help navigating the often confusing land of Medicare options in Maricopa County, the Area Agency on Aging’s Benefits Assistance Program can help.

“When you consider that Medicare-eligible beneficiaries in Maricopa County can choose from more than 35 Medicare Advantage HMO plans and 27 Medicare Prescription PDP plans, sold by several insurers, working through the details can be daunting,” Area Agency on Aging President and CEO Mary Lynn Kasunic said in a news release.

The annual Medicare open enrollment period began Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. It's important for beneficiaries to review their plan this time of year and to make changes as their needs and options change, according to the agency.

Each year trained agency counselors help more than 15,000 people using Medicare to make informed choices, according to the news release. The agency serves seniors throughout Maricopa County, not just those in the city of Phoenix.

Counselors are available to assist people new to Medicare, those who need help evaluating plan options or people who have questions on how to use Medicare. Counselors can help beneficiaries as well as their caregivers and families. Additionally, counselors can help determine if a beneficiary qualifies for special Medicare cost-savings programs.

“Although most of the Area Agency’s Medicare calls come during Open Enrollment, benefits counselors are available year-round to help you understand and compare options so individuals can make the best choices for them and their loved ones,” Kasunic said in the news release. “Counselors also can assist in accessing providers, correcting billing issues and filing complaints and appeals.”

All services are currently provided via phone call. The Medicare Benefits Check Up can also be accessed through the Area Agency on Aging’s website.

For one-on-one counseling or to request an educational presentation call the Benefits Assistance Program at 602-280-1059 or the 24-hour senior help line at 602-264-4357.