Ohio Department of Insurance Director Jillian Froment is encouraging those on Medicare to review their drug and insurance coverage options for 2018 and select a plan that fits their needs and budget. The Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP), a division of the Ohio Department of Insurance, will host Medicare Check-Up Day events throughout the state to help consumers compare and select the best plan that meets their unique needs. Medicare Open Enrollment for 2018 runs from October 15 through December 7.

“Changes in premiums, cost sharing, benefits, and the availability of a plan all play an important role in determining what options are best for you,” said Froment. “I urge all Ohioans on Medicare to contact the department’s OSHIIP program or attend a nearby open enrollment event to receive the information they need to make an informed decision about their coverage.”

Before making any changes to an existing health plan, it is important for Ohioans who are Medicare eligible to know what their current coverage provides and compare that to available choices offered, including the benefits, cost of premium, and out-of-pocket costs.

Consumers should also confirm their physicians participate in the plan they select.

During Medicare’s annual open enrollment, Ohioans can:

• Change or continue current prescription drug plan;

• Select a Medicare Advantage Plan, designed for comprehensive health and drug coverage; and

• Learn about recent updates to Medicare plan changes and financial assistance programs.

• Protecting Against Fraud and Identity Theft

Froment advises Ohioans to be aware of predatory sales practices during open enrollment. The Ohio Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) will be present at Check-Up Day events to encourage Medicare recipients to protect their Medicare card and explain how to avoid fraudulent behavior. Consumers that suspect wrongdoing should call the department’s Fraud and Enforcement hotline at 1-800-686-1527 or the SMP at 1-800-488-6070.

Those unable to attend a Medicare Check-Up Day event can contact OSHIIP at 1-800-686-1578, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), 24 hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week.

Information, including specific plan details, is available at www.medicare.gov.

To view a complete listing of Medicare Check-Up Day events, visit OSHIIP’s Medicare Check-Up and Annual Enrollment page at www.insurance.ohio.gov/Consumer/OSHIIP/SitePages/CheckUpDays.aspx.

For more insurance tips and information visit www.insurance.ohio.gov or call the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1526 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to speak to a representative. For additional information, follow the department on Facebook and Twitter.