Today nearly 68 million people rely on Medicare for health security. As more baby boomers turn 65, enrollment will continue to grow reaching an estimated 80 million in 2030.
Medicare re-enrollment is just around the corner and Jewish Family Services is here to assist with the process. JFS Care Manager Kelly G. Loeb is offering free consultations for Kansas and Missouri residents beginning Oct. 15 and continuing through Dec. 7. Loeb is an impartial, unbiased Medicare counselor and educator. She is not an insurance agent, broker or salesperson and has no financial stake in assisting beneficiaries with Medicare choices.
With the current COVID-19 situation JFS is following protocols ensuring the safety of all, so appointments with Loeb are available via Zoom, email or by phone. Loeb is available 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to assist people.
Current and new clients are welcome to chat with Loeb. The only requirement is you must be a Medicare beneficiary (of any age — some people younger than 65 have Medicare due to disability or other circumstances).
Once your appointment is set, have a current list of prescription medications and your red, white and blue Medicare card. Loeb can help you or a loved one possibly save money on Medicare prescription drug and healthcare costs. Each session with Loeb is about 30 minutes to an hour as she helps sort through the details and outlines potential savings.
“Even if a beneficiary’s medications haven’t changed in 2020, it’s still a good idea to review coverage — savings can come from switching pharmacies, trying out mail order service or even receiving some medication at no cost through patient assistance programs,” Loeb said. “Beneficiaries can also learn about the other great services JFS provides to adults 60 and older.”
Last year, Loeb counseled 92 beneficiaries, and their total savings was $84,485.35. The average annual amount saved per beneficiary was $1,724.19 (for those who incurred a savings) based on the number who changed plans and/or incurred a savings in another way.
To take advantage of this free service, contact Loeb by calling her at 913-327-8278 or email her at .
For additional information about Medicare and your benefits, visit www.mymedicarematters.org.