Louisiana Department of Insurance Announces Medicare Open Enrollment Through December 7

Louisiana - The Louisiana Department of Insurance announced on October 20, 2022, that Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is encouraging Medicare beneficiaries to contact the Louisiana Department of Insurance's Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) if they need help understanding their Medicare options during the October 15 - December 7 Open Enrollment Period. Consumers should assess their coverage options and benefits now to make the best decision for their health.

“Our SHIIP staff is available by phone or virtual counseling to help consumers address questions about their Medicare coverage,” said Commissioner Donelon. “It’s a free and confidential resource that beneficiaries can use to review their health coverage and make the best choice for their health care needs.”

Beneficiaries may change their plans during Medicare Open Enrollment, such as switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare; switching from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another; and adjusting their current Medicare Part D Prescription plans. Beneficiaries who decide to change plans should make sure their preferred doctors are in the new company's provider network.

Medicare beneficiaries who are happy with their coverage are not obligated to do anything to keep it.

“We want to make sure everyone who is eligible for Medicare can get access to the care they need and be informed about their health care coverage options,” said SHIIP Director Vicki Dufrene.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance houses the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), which includes partner organizations around the state. SHIIP can be contacted by Medicare beneficiaries by calling the LDI at 1-800-259-5300 or by following this link.