Medicare Advantage Informational Meetings Set for Nov. 27 on EIU Campus
Nov-25-2013
Meetings designed to help state of Illinois retirees understand the new Medicare Advantage insurance program are scheduled to take place Wednesday, Nov. 27, on the campus of Eastern Illinois University.
Janice Bonneville, deputy director of Central Management Services, will be on hand to explain the program that is being offered to eligible retirees, survivors and dependents. Vendors representing the available insurance plans will be in attendance, as well.
Admission to either of two meetings -- one at 9:30 a.m. and the second at 1:30 p.m. -- is free. Both are scheduled to take place in the Grand Ballroom of the MLK Jr. Union. Parking is free for the event and available throughout campus.
Any state of Illinois retiree is encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the Medicare Advantage program, although it is designed specifically for those who are 65 and over; who are on Medicare, Parts A and B; and whose dependent(s), where applicable, are also on Medicare, Parts A and B.
Family members -- especially those with or representing loved ones who meet the above-mentioned requirements but who are no longer able or may need assistance to make decisions regarding insurance needs -- are also encouraged to attend.
Those meeting the requirements MUST choose a new Medicare Advantage plan by Dec. 13. Those who do not choose a new plan will see their medical and prescription drug coverage end on Jan. 31, 2014, and they will not be eligible to re-enroll until the next enrollment period in the fall.
Eligible participants should have recently received an enrollment kit titled "Total Retiree Advantage Illinois - Your Trail to Better Health" in the mail. Anyone who did not receive this information, or who might have questions regarding this matter, should call CMS at 1-800-442-1300 or SURS at 1-800-275-7877.
Retirees are encouraged to bring their packets to the Nov. 27 meetings, where individuals will be available to help fill out enrollment forms.
The meetings are being co-sponsored by the EIU Benefits Office, the EIU Annuitants Association and State Rep. Brad Halbrook's office.
