Hollister
– When Medicare’s prescription drug benefit was announced in
2005, it was greeted with both excitement and confusion.
Hollister – When Medicare’s prescription drug benefit was announced in 2005, it was greeted with both excitement and confusion.
A number of seniors – including some in San Benito County – complained that the numerous plans and rules were confusing, if not downright incomprehensible.
For community members left scratching their heads by the prescription drug program, explanations are at hand. The Medicare bus is coming to local senior center Jovenes de Antaño on Monday.
Pauline Valdivia, the center’s executive director, said she’s excited about the informational event.
“This is the first time the Medicare bus has come to Hollister,” she said.
The big, blue bus will arrive Monday carrying a number of counselors, as well as regional Medicare administrator Jeff Flick. The counselors – including some Spanish speakers – will help seniors enroll in Medicare or switch plans. If they have Medicare coverage, seniors can also get free flu shots.
Valdivia, who is also on the Hollister City Council, recalled that when locals first heard about the drug benefit, many seniors were befuddled and needed help choosing from the assortment of plans.
“There was a state of confusion,” she said. “It was a doozy, let me tell you.”
Medicare is a federally funded program for citizens who are at least 65 years old. According to the Medicare Web site, San Benito residents can choose from among 55 prescription drug plans and seven Medicare plans that include drug coverage.
The current Medicare open enrollment period ends on Dec. 31. Those who are eligible for Medicare but do not enroll can be penalized, Valdivia said.
The senior center, she added, refers seniors with Medicare questions to the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program, a federal and state program that provides counselors who try to help seniors choose the right plan.
“I encourage the community to come out on Monday,” she said. “This is their chance, if they haven’t enrolled yet.”
Anthony Ha covers local government for the Free Lance. Reach him at (831) 637-5566 ext. 330 or [email protected].
