For Oregonians navigating the labyrinth of Medicare during Open Enrollment, running from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, assistance is at hand—free of charge. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Office of Aging and People with Disabilities offers their expertise through the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program. Those enrolled in Medicare can tweak their health or prescription drug plans, choose a new Medicare Advantage plan, or stick with Original Medicare with guidance from SHIBA counselors.
Beyond enrollment aid, SHIBA also counsels individuals on the upcoming changes to Medicare for 2025, including the new Manufacturer Discount Program which mitigates the famed “donut hole,” a previously burdensome coverage gap. Jane-ellen Weidanz, APD’s Deputy Director of Policy, emphasized, “Our APD SHIBA team is devoted to helping people prepare for open enrollment and understand changes,” according to the Oregon Department of Human Services. Among the changes is a reduced maximum out-of-pocket cost for covered drugs—now $2,000—and coverage for weight loss drugs under certain conditions. Other enhancements include the GUIDE model for family caregiver services and expanded access to mental health care.
Scams, a perennial nuisance during such enrollment periods, are another area where SHIBA provides valuable assistance. Program counselors can educate beneficiaries on avoiding fraud and navigating reporting procedures. APD Director Dr. Nakeshia Knight-Coyle advised, “SHIBA counselors are committed to ensuring Oregonians have the information they need to avoid becoming victims of fraud and report scams or suspected Medicare fraud,” as reported by the Oregon Department of Human Services.
