Medicare beneficiaries in Stanislaus County given a few more weeks to make changes
The federal government is allowing extra time for seniors who weren’t able to sign up for or make changes to Medicare benefits because of the coronavirus outbreak.
The closure of Social Security Administration offices kept some people from making enrollment changes in the Medicare program during the normal January to March period.
The enrollment window has been extended to June 17.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has also decided a special period for changing Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans, which is triggered by weather emergencies and other natural disasters, now applies to COVID-19. The special period runs through June 30.
Maria Profeta, program manager for the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program in Modesto, said she believes many seniors eligible for Medicare benefits were stymied by the pandemic and office closures.
“I believe there will be a lot of people taking advantage of these extensions,” Profeta said. “When the COVID-19 (outbreak) started they were too afraid to go out for any kind of assistance.”
Stanislaus County’s HICAP office for helping people navigate Medicare has only been offering counseling by phone appointments during the coronavirus emergency. The program is now providing in-person counseling by appointment.
Staff members wearing masks are safely distanced inside the office, Profeta said. Masks are available for beneficiaries who make appointments.
Profeta said the office can assist people with the Medicare paperwork. The HICAP office is at the county Veterans Center at 3500 Coffee Road, Suite 19.
Stanislaus County residents needing assistance can schedule a telephone or office appointment by calling 558-4540. In other counties, call 800-434-0222.
