Before long, the leaves will start turning from green to gold, red and brown, SEC football Saturdays will be in full swing, and if you’re an avid TV watcher, commercials related to Medicare Open Enrollment will appear.

You know the ones. In the past, they’ve been dominated by former NFL star Joe Namath, actor William Shatner, and comedian J.J. Walker.

While TARCOG staff may be fans of the paid spokesmen, that doesn’t mean we encourage you to listen to them to find the best options for you or your loved ones, said Executive Director Michelle Jordan.

TARCOG is available to assist people in DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone, Madison and Marshall counties with the open enrollment process which starts in October, she said. Open enrollment is the opportunity for participants to compare health and prescription drug plans or add extra benefits. If they haven’t done so already, Jordan encourages all participants to review their plans before the deadline in December.

IMPACT

It’s a move that impacts people’s bottom line and potentially the economy, said Lee Terry, TARCOG’s director of Economic Development and Planning.

“Anywhere we can save money related to our healthcare gives us more income we can spend in other areas to boost the economy,” Lee added.

HOW IT WORKS

Teresa Hazzard is TARCOG’s resource coordinator, State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) coordinator and Senior Medicare Patrol counselor. She is the agency’s subject matter expert on all things Medicare-related. And she’s someone you can count on to help you make an unbiased and informed decision. Her goal, along with other SHIP counselors in the region, is to save you money.

 “By letting SHIP do a free comparison, you have the opportunity of substantial savings in premium and drug cost,” Teresa said.

For those who have never asked for help from a SHIP counselor before, she encourages them to schedule an appointment for an in-person interview. For those who are repeat clients, a worksheet and telephone appointment will suffice.

She is already scheduling appointments for the enrollment period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. This is the only time of the year that Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare Part D Prescription plan or Medicare Advantage Plan.

​“As the Medicare Open Enrollment period approaches, seniors will most likely notice an increase in mail from insurance companies offering a variety of plans,” she said. “I always like to advise the community to beware of possible scams.”

TIPS TO AVOID SCAMS

It is important to remember the following:

• No one should knock on your door to sell you a policy. They should only come to your home if you have made an appointment.
• Never sign paperwork unless you are 100 percent sure that is the plan you want.
• Never give out your Medicare number unless it is a Medicare provider. Protect your Medicare number as you protect your Credit/Debit cards and your Social Security cards.
• Medicare will NEVER call you on the phone. They will always send a letter requesting that you call them.
• Disclaimers from Advantage Plans agencies must be given within the first minute of conversation.
• SHIP must be mentioned by agencies who are calling potential clients about commercial content.
• All calls must be recorded.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Teresa at 256-830-0818 or at teresa.hazzard@tarcog.us