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SHINE NEWS…. Open Enrollment is just around the corner so don’t delay!

As posted in “To Your Good Health” August 2016:

Medicare’s Part C (Medicare Advantage Plan) and Part D (Prescription Drug Plan) Annual Open Enrollment (October 15, 2016 – December 7, 2016) will be here before you know it and it is very important to review your Medicare options during this period. You will receive a notice from your Prescription Drug or Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO) Plan in September. Make sure you read this notice – it will explain the changes (premiums, copays, tiers) to your plan for 2017.

During the Annual Open Enrollment (October 15, 2016 – December 7, 2016), you will have a chance to CHANGE your plan. This change takes effect January 1, 2017. SHINE Counselors can help you understand your plan’s changes, screen you for assistance programs and discuss other options you may have. If you do not change your plan during this period you may have to stay with your existing plan for another whole year. (Note: the open enrollment may not affect those with retiree coverage).

DO NOT WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE Appointments fill up fast! Call the senior center and make an appointment with a SHINE counselor for this year’s open enrollment. Make sure you bring the list or bottles of your current medications to the appointment and if you are a couple, please ask for two appointments.


The Barnstable County Department of Human Services administers the regional office for the Cape and Islands SHINE Program (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone). SHINE counselors provide free health insurance information, counseling, and assistance to Massachusetts residents with Medicare and their caregivers.