Health and Fitness : Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, October 15th – December 7th

Every year between October 15th and December 7th, Iowans on Medicare have the opportunity to review and make changes to their drug plan or Medicare Advantage.

The Part D and Medicare Advantage plans can change their coverage, premiums, co-payments and provider networks every year. It is important that Iowans on Medicare use this time to review changes to their current plan and compare with plans available to them in 2025.

This OEP will be an especially important year for Medicare beneficiaries to pay attention to changes in their current plan and compare alternative options. With the implementation of a $2,000 cap on prescription drugs copayments in 2025, it is anticipated that there will be significant changes to plan premiums, deductibles and formularies. Resources are available through the Iowa Insurance Division to compare plans and make an informed decision.

The Senior Health Insurance Information and Senior Medicare Patrol (SHIIP-SMP) programs are free, confidential and unbiased services offered by the State of Iowa. SHIIP-SMP volunteers provide one-on-one insurance counseling and assistance at no cost to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers. SHIIP-SMP also provides community outreach and education on Medicare financial assistance eligibility, and how to guard against Medicare fraud. In Benton County SHIIP-SMP services are made available at Virginia Gay Hospital.

"The SHIIP-SMP program has a great track record for saving Iowans money and helping them with Medicare questions and problems. In 2023, the program served more than 40,000 Medicare beneficiaries and saved clients in Iowa millions of dollars", shared Kristin Griffith, the SHIIP-SMP Director.

"Our dedicated SHIIP-SMP volunteers have completed an extensive training program and are certified each year. Virginia Gay Hospital encourages Benton County consumers to connect with SHIIP-SMP services by calling 319-472-6200 and making an appointment," said Barb Parbs, Volunteer Counselor