FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 15, 2020
MEDIA CONTACT
Meghan Connelly
401-318-5727
Meghan.Connelly@oha.ri.gov
Medicare Open Enrollment Begins Today

Office of Healthy Aging, partners help Rhode Islanders explore
Medicare options and select best health coverage for their needs


CRANSTON, R.I. – The Office of Healthy Aging (OHA) announced today the start of the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period in Rhode Island. During Open Enrollment, which runs through December 7, 2020, Medicare-eligible Rhode Islanders have the opportunity to sign up for coverage or make changes to their existing plan and/or Part D coverage. Due to COVID-19 and related safety measures, this year, OHA and its partnering agencies are offering free, virtual and phone-based counseling and application assistance during Open Enrollment.

“Every Rhode Islander deserves the opportunity to age strong,” said OHA Director Rose Jones. “Access to quality healthcare is a critical part of the equation. While the Medicare Open Enrollment period will look a little different this year, our commitment to helping people navigate their coverage options and enroll in the best plan for them is unchanged. I am grateful to the many partners and volunteers who make this work possible and ensure Open Enrollment is successful each year.” 
 
More than 200,000 people are covered by Medicare in Rhode Island. The state’s Open Enrollment period is coordinated by OHA’s nationally recognized State Health Information Program (SHIP). Through a robust network of community partners and volunteers, SHIP provides free coaching on Medicare benefits and services to older Rhode Islanders, adults living with disabilities and their families throughout the year. To schedule an appointment with a Medicare enrollment specialist, call the Point, Rhode Island’s healthy aging helpdesk, at 401.462.4444. For more information about SHIP services, call 1.888.884.8721 or visit www.oha.ri.gov.  


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Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging
(401) 462-3000