WESTFIELD-Karen Noblit encourages seniors to review their Medicare open enrollment packet as soon as it arrives this fall.
“Don’t wait until the last minute to review your information packet,” said Noblit, who as a SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) representative can answer questions city residents may have about changes to their plan.
Karen Noblit, senior benefits coordinator at the Westfield Council on Aging, is encouraging seniors to review their open enrollment packet as soon as it arrives.
“Premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and the drugs covered by your plan can change significantly,” said Noblit who also serves as senior benefits coordinator for the Westfield Council on Aging. Her office is located within the Westfield Senior Center on Noble Street.
The Medicare open enrollment period is observed from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, and on Oct. 12, Noblit will attend a daylong training session for SHINE representatives in this region at Life Path, Inc.
“During our training we are notified of any Medicare changes,” she said.
For seniors who wish to review their packet with Noblit – especially if they plan to make a change in coverage – appointments must be made now since her schedule is filling up fast. Phone appointments can also be scheduled for Nov. 17 and Dec. 1. Seniors are also welcome to have family members attend the session.
When meeting with Noblit, she asks that seniors bring their Medicare card (also the new Medicare card if received), a medication list, a MassHealth card if applicable, and the entire Medicare packet. Also, if seniors have received letters from their physicians about opting out of a particular Medicare Advantage plan, they should bring that communication in with them.
“My job is to give seniors the best options and savings on their drug plan and the best coverage at the lowest cost to save them money,” said Noblit, adding that if seniors do not plan to make changes to their coverage, they don’t have to do anything with their packet since that coverage will automatically renew itself on Jan. 1.
“If you choose to make a change, we will do it together here in the office through the Medicare website,” said Noblit, adding that a confirmation sheet will be printed out for the senior to take home.
To schedule an appointment with Noblit, call (413) 562-6435.
“Seniors like the face-to-face interaction with our office and the process of reviewing all of the options available to them,” she added.
Noblit noted that seniors who have questions can also visit www.Medicare.gov or call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227, or the regional SHINE office at 1-800-243-4636, then press 3, or visit www.mass.gov/elders. Another “helpful resource” according to Noblit is the Prescription Advantage office at 1-800-243-4636.
