Senior to get straight talk on Medicare

Published 11:46 pm Friday, October 23, 2009

Seniors in Chilton County will have the opportunity Nov. 2 to have their questions about Medicare answered.

Counselors from the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging (M4A) and the Alabama Department of Senior Services will speak to seniors about the upcoming Medicare enrollment period, which will run Nov. 15-Dec. 31.

The free program, called “Let’s Talk Turkey about Medicare,” will last from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Alabama Power Conference Center in Clanton.

“This event will provide individuals with the information they need to make educated decisions regarding their healthcare”, stated Carolyn Fortner, M4A’s Executive Director. “Many times individuals choose a plan that does not meet all of their medical needs, and it ends up costing them a considerable amount of money out of pocket. Because there are so many plans available, it is very difficult to know which plan is the right choice.”

Seniors who need assistance choosing a Medicare program should bring with them a list of their current medications, the name of the pharmacy they use, the name of their doctor, their Social Security number and the current Medicare plan they use.

This information will help counselors narrow down two-three suitable Medicare programs for the senior to consider.

In addition to receiving assistance with Medicare questions, seniors and their caregivers may participate in free health screenings, educational presentations and lunch.

To make reservations for lunch or to learn more about the program, please call M4A at 1-866-570-2998.