Kettering wants to help you learn about Medicare

Medicare is a complex program that offers people who are 65 years or older and disabled persons medical insurance at retirement or when they can no longer work due to their disability.

Like all federal programs, there are many rules and regulations governing the system, making it not so user friendly. Having a professional who understands the system can help you get the most out of your Medicare.

Individuals approaching 65 should start considering Medicare. The enrollment period begins three months prior to applicant’s birth month, continues during individual’s birth month and ends three months after the year applicant turns 65.

Those who do not enroll during the aforementioned months relative to their 65th birthday may pay penalties unless there is coverage from other sources such as applicant’s or spouse’s employer.

Each year, Medicare coverage plans and offerings change; and, it is important to review plan choices annually to evaluate the impact of the changes and determine whether or not changes need to be made for optimal benefits.

The annual open enrollment period is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. During this time, beneficiaries can change their Medicare for the coming year to keep up with those changes.

Health care needs change from year to year, so what works best this year may not meet the needs for the future. With hundreds of choices, it is even more important to seek help from someone who knows those changes.

Medicare-trained professionals will provide individual consultations by appointment at the Kettering Connection in Town and Country Shopping Center during the open enrollment period.

Appointments are free and open to Kettering residents, city volunteers and Charles I. Lathrem Center members on a firstcome, first-served basis.

Kettering Connection staff will follow all CDC precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and video or phone counseling sessions are also available.

To schedule an appointment with a Medicare-trained professional, contact the Senior Service Coordinator at 937-296-3330 or by email at vickie.carraher@ ketteirngoh.org.