Are you joining Medicare this year? First you will need to join Medicare. Depending on your circumstances you may be enrolled automatically by Social Security or you may have to submit an application. Then you will need to understand a lot of new information to make informed decision about your coverage choices. Medicare has its own vocabulary and rules and there are deadlines you need to meet and penalties (some lasting a lifetime) for not doing things at the right time.

Medicare coves most health issues, but not everything is covered. There are also federal and state programs available to help people with very low incomes and limited assets pay their Medicare premium reduce their drug costs, and in some cover their Medicare copays and deductibles.

SHIBA volunteers are here to make the transition easier for you. Join us for an online presentation on Thursday, November 17 at 1 p.m. Come learn how Medicare works, what your coverage options are and when you must act to avoid penalties. To register for the presentation email shibasjco@yahoo.com or call 360-376-5892. We will need your first and last name, your phone number and your email address to register you.

This is a free presentation made by trained volunteers from the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program overseen by the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner to provide free, unbiased and confidential counseling assistance in San Juan County.

SHIBA has trained volunteer counselors available on the 3 major islands in San Juan County. Call the local SHIBA office at 360-376-5892 to schedule your free personal, confidential, unbiased counseling session. In San Juan County SHIBA is sponsored by the Inter Island Healthcare Foundation.