Changing Options in Medicare Coverage for 2008

There have been significant changes in Medicare programs including higher deductibles and co-payments, the introduction of Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage and various Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans during the past years.

Many beneficiaries are confused about how to adequately supplement basic coverage. How a Medicare Supplement differs from a Medicare Advantage plan remains a basic question. Understanding both is important to assess their respective benefits. And then there are the new options available in 2008 that need to be addressed.

The Reuter Center, as
part of its Health Education Series, will offer a clinic to be
conducted by Josiah Bova, Field Operations and Western Regional
director of SHIIP. Some may recall that Josiah conducted a series of
Medicare Part D clinics here in November 2006 and February 2007.

When: Thursday, October 4, 2007 at 6:30 PM in the Chestnut Room at the Reuter Center.

Who should attend: Everyone interested in the costs, plan variations
and pluses/minuses of Medicare Advantage plans vs. standard Medicare
and supplements.

Why come: Varying costs, plan options and extensive press coverage have
made Medicare Advantage Plans an issue that all of us should understand
so that any enrollment decision can be made with complete information.

SHIIP was created by Insurance Commissioner Jim Long in 1986. SHIIP is
a division of the North Carolina Department of Insurance that offers
free, objective information about Medicare, Medicare Prescription Drug
Plans, Medicare Supplements, Medicare Managed Care and Long-Term Care
Insurance.

For questions about SHIIP or to find a coordinator in this area, please call
1-800-443-9354.