#Westport, CT – Department of Human Services Director Elaine Daignault announced today that the Medicare Open Enrollment period begins on October 15, 2018 and runs through December 7, 2018. During this time, beneficiaries can join a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan; switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan). These dates are important because once the enrollment period has ended no further changes to Medicare enrollment can be made until the following year.

Daignault noted, “In addition to our Municipal Agent for the Elderly, Kristen Witt, and an amazing Senior Center that offers an array of programs of services for seniors, the Town is fortunate to welcome two CHOICES volunteers who offer free and confidential health insurance counseling, education and assistance to people who qualify for Medicare Health Insurance.”

“CHOICES”, Connecticut’s program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, Eligibility Screening is part of a national network of programs that offers free counseling to Connecticut residents. Volunteer CHOICES counselors are trained through a partnership between the State Unit on Aging, CT’s five Area Agencies on Aging and the Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc. with funding in whole, or in part through a grant from the Administration for Community Living (ACL).

Westport residents are encouraged to call the Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or the Center for Senior Activities at 203-341-5099 after October 1 to schedule an appointment with a CHOICES volunteer counselor during the enrollment period.

This press release is made possible by: