The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) has announced it’s offering free assistance for those navigating Medicare choices during the Open Enrollment period, which kicked off on Oct. 15 and will run through Dec. 7, 2025. The state's Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is a key resource for comparing health and drug plan options, according to a recent release.
“Your health needs can change from year to year, and so do Medicare plan costs and coverage,” SHIP Director Sandy Leith said in the release, “Now’s the time to review your current Medicare coverage to make sure it still meets your needs.” Trained volunteers power SHIP, offering trusted, unbiased Medicare counseling to eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers—particularly during this critical decision period.
SHIP counselors are not only available for in-person and online support year-round, but their services become invaluable during Open Enrollment, when Medicare beneficiaries can change or join new health and prescription drug plans. Those who do decide on a new plan will see their coverage begin on Jan. 1, 2026. Beneficiaries are advised to verify their drug coverage as SHIP counselors have raised concerns over fewer plan options and increasing premiums for the upcoming year; albeit, they highlighted the availability of four drug plans charging no premiums.
“The right plan for you is the plan that will cover ALL of your current prescription medications,” Director Leith cautioned. Beneficiaries should closely read the letters from their current Medicare plans regarding the changes for 2026 to ensure continuity of care, and they should not hesitate to reach out to Medicare for verification if anything is unclear.
To explore Medicare options or to seek assistance on how to potentially save on costs, people are encouraged to call or visit a SHIP site. For more convenient service, the Medicare Plan Finder tool is available online, while a direct call to 1-800-MEDICARE can connect individuals with a customer support representative, ready to assist around the clock. Those who require TTY can dial 877-486-2048. For more information on the programs and services available for older adults and persons with disabilities in Illinois, the IDoA website and their Senior HelpLine offer a gateway to additional resources and support.
