Letters Alert Eligible Medicare Beneficiaries about Missed Benefits

Beginning this week, over 28,000 Iowa Medicare beneficiaries will receive a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) telling them that they may be eligible for help with their out-of-pocket medical and drug expenses. The State of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) encourages beneficiaries who receive these letters to contact SHIIP to learn how they can potentially save hundreds of dollars through the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) and Part D Extra Help.

The letters are sent annually to people with Medicare with limited incomes who could be eligible for help—but are not enrolled in these programs. The Medicare Savings Programs help with Medicare out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Part D Extra Help lowers the costs of prescription drugs.

“These letters are not a scam,” says Kris Gross, Director of SHIIP. “They are an important notice that people on Medicare should review and consider. SHIIP can help determine if you’re eligible, apply, and understand these new benefits once you’re approved.”

Grinnell Regional Medical Center hosts the SHIIP program and offers local counselors to assist area residents. Call 641-236-2588 to discuss your Medicare benefits with a counselor. Or residents may contact the state office at 1-800-351-4664 (TTY 800-735-2942) if you have questions about this assistance or other Medicare topics. SHIIP’s services are free, confidential, and objective. They do not promote or sell any insurance products.