Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment - Resources and Tips for our Community for
Out of Appointments, But Not Out of Options: Here’s How to Get the Help You Need
Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment: Resources and Tips for Our Community
Each year, Medicare Open Enrollment offers an important opportunity for older adults to review their current plans, explore new options, and ensure they have the best possible coverage. At the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging, we’re dedicated to helping our community members make informed decisions. However, due to high demand, we are currently fully booked and unable to schedule additional appointments for this enrollment period. We understand the importance of these consultations, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Alternative Resources for Medicare Assistance
For those who still need guidance, Medicare has resources available 24/7. You can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit Medicare.gov to review and compare plans. While these resources are robust, we know that the process can still feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help make your call to Medicare as smooth as possible.
Tips for a Smoother Medicare Experience
Call During Non-Peak Hours
Medicare's call center experiences heavy call volumes, especially during the day. We recommend calling in the early morning hours, as this tends to be a quieter time. This can help reduce wait times and give you a better experience.
Have Your Medicare Card Ready
Keep your red, white, and blue Medicare card nearby when you call. This will save you time, as agents may need information directly from your card to access your account and provide personalized assistance.
Prepare Your Medications List
One of the most important aspects of choosing a Medicare plan is ensuring your medications are covered at the best possible cost. Write down a complete list of your medications and dosages ahead of time. This will allow the Medicare representative to help you find a plan that covers your prescriptions affordably.
Bring Any Notices You’ve Received
If you’ve received any recent notices from Medicare or your current insurance provider, have them on hand during your call. These documents may contain information about upcoming changes to your current plan, helping you understand whether switching plans is necessary. If you haven’t received any notices, don’t worry—Medicare representatives can still help you find the information you need.
Let Your Agent Know if You Have VPHARM or Green Mountain Care
If you are enrolled in VPHARM or Green Mountain Care, be sure to inform your agent. These programs can impact your Medicare choices, and making your agent aware of your participation can help them provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Supporting Our Community's Needs
While we wish we could accommodate everyone who needs assistance, our current resources are limited. With additional funding, we could expand our capacity to support more individuals during critical periods like Open Enrollment. If you feel strongly about increasing access to these essential services, consider reaching out to Senator Bernie Sanders to share your thoughts. Advocating for increased support can make a meaningful difference in helping us better serve our community.
Senator Bernie Sanders Contact Information:
Washington, D.C. Office:
332 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5141
Fax: (202) 228-0776
Vermont Office:
1 Church Street, 3rd Floor
Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: (802) 862-0697
Toll-Free (VT only): (800) 339-9834
Fax: (802) 860-6370
You can also visit his website at sanders.senate.gov to use the contact form or learn more about his work.
We're Here for You
At the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging, we are honored to serve our community and provide support whenever we can. While we may not be able to accommodate additional Medicare appointments this season, please know that our commitment to your health and well-being remains steadfast. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or needs beyond Medicare—we’re here to help however we can.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. Together, we can continue building a community where older adults thrive with dignity, connection, and support.
