The deadline to enroll for Medicare coverage for the coming year is approaching, and for seniors who need help navigating the program, Dallas County Hospital is once again offering the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP).
The DCH SHIIP Counselor is Lou Hoger, and he says there are many things seniors need to keep an eye on, starting with the timing of when to sign up. Hoger says many people are worried about incurring penalties for enrolling too late, but often times that leads to them signing up too early and be assessed different penalties. He says it’s also important for seniors to know the differences between parts A, B, and D, as well as all the different options of coverage that are available, such as the new Medicare Cost Plan.
Hoger emphasizes that people shouldn’t hesitate to contact him or another SHIIP counselor before the December 7th enrollment deadline, and adds that he takes pride in helping people save money each year. “I do know that Medicare can be overwhelming. For most people, it’s like going through a maze. And the greatest joy I get from what I do is being able to help people manage getting through that maze and getting the piece of the cheese at the end of the maze!”
For more information on SHIIP or to set up an appointment, you can contact Hoger directly at 515-465-7578, or you can call 1-800-351-4664 for the general line. You can also visit the Medicare website, by clicking the link below. To hear more from Hoger, listen to today’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program on air and at RaccoonValleyRadio.com.