Carol Berry, left, speaks with Cullman County Commission on Aging Director Dusty Baker, right, about Medicare Part D Open Enrollment assistance, as well as the history of the commission and the different services it offers Cullman-area senior citizens. (Cullman Tribune)
CULLMAN – The Cullman County Commission on Aging (COA) is putting out the word that time is running out for seniors to make changes to their Medicare Part D plans during the current open enrollment period, which ends on Dec. 7. Any changes made will take effect Jan. 1, 2019.
COA offers assistance to seniors with enrollment and policy modifications.
COA Director Dusty Baker said, “Medicare Part D counseling is one of many wonderful services the COA does that puts money back in the pockets of senior citizens living in Cullman County and surrounding areas. Last year, the COA was able to save seniors $960,000 on their prescription medication plan! This was done by comparing Medicare drug plans based on the client’s current medication list and enrolling them in the plan that fits their needs the best. The great thing about this is that the COA is totally unbiased, and you can choose the pharmacy that you prefer. This year, the COA hopes to set new records and break the $1 million mark!”
After open enrollment ends on December 7, seniors will not be able to make changes until the next open enrollment period, so those who would like help need to go by the COA before it ends. The COA office, located at 1539 Sportsman Lake Rd. NW adjacent to Sportsman Lake Park in Cullman, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is closed from 12-12:30 for lunch. For more information call 256-734-1241 or visit www.cullmancoa.com or www.medicare.gov for more details.
Said Baker, “We justify our existence by being able to serve our seniors at a high level. Whether that’s by finding ways to put money back in their pockets, providing social opportunities, or a nutritious meal we aim to be the organization they can count on. This wouldn’t be possible without the wonderful staff that have servant hearts. We love our job, but we love the people we serve more!”
Learn more about the COA and Medicare Open Enrollment here, in a video interview with Baker: www.facebook.com/CullmanTribune/videos/324531285052813.
COA Senior Christmas Party coming Dec. 14
COA will offer area seniors a chance for some seasonal celebration with its annual Senior Christmas Party on Dec. 14. The event will be plenty of fun but will also help benefit a worthy local charity.
Baker shared, “We also use this opportunity for a canned food drive to donate to Cullman Caring for Kids, so we ask that everyone bring a non-perishable canned food to donate. Last year we were able to donate over 500 pounds!”
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