Ocean County Leader

Ocean County is providing assistance to seniors in choosing Medicare options as open enrollment approaches. Barbara Jo Crea, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and liaison to the Ocean County Office of Senior Services, highlighted the confusion caused by excessive information and misinformation surrounding Medicare plans. "There is so much information and also misinformation out there when it comes to signing up for a Medicare plan that it often creates more confusion than help for our seniors," she stated.

To address this issue, the county offers one-on-one assistance through State Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) Counselors. These counselors are available for individual appointments starting October 15. "These counselors are professionally trained to provide unbiased information to you in all facets of Medicare," said Crea. She emphasized that these counselors do not work on commission but aim to inform seniors about all available plans.

Appointments can be scheduled at several locations including The County Connection at the Ocean County Mall, Toms River Senior Center, Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library, Beachwood Recreation Center, and the Ocean County Southern Service Center. Each location has specific days and times when services are offered.

"It's important our seniors register for this assistance," noted Crea, acknowledging the popularity of this service. Open enrollment allows individuals to make changes to their coverage from October 15 until December 7, with changes taking effect in the new year.

Crea reminded seniors that Medicare plans vary annually and what works for one person may not suit another. "Remember these plans are not one size fits all," she said.

For further details or to schedule an appointment, seniors can contact the Ocean County Office of Senior Services at (732) 929-2091.