Their Lives.
such as premiums, deductibles, and
copays. Counselors assist recipients
to understand their enrollment
periods, how to enroll, networks, and
information concerning prescriptions
plans, Medicare Advantage plans,
and Medicare Supplemental plans
(Medigaps). Counselors guide
recipients with Medicare towards
understanding many of the benefits
they are entitled to, for example,
preventative services and an annual
wellness visit to their physician.
The APPRISE program offers a
variety of other services. Counselors
provide various formats for learning
more about Medicare and savings
options through one on one
appointments, in-person presentations,
and through dissemination of
publications from the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid (CMS).
APPRISE offers several Enrollment
Center sites throughout Erie County
for Medicare beneficiaries to call
and get questions answered, or to
schedule appointments during the
Open Enrollment for Advantage
Plans and Prescription Drug Plans. In
addition to sites serving as Enrollment
Centers during AOEP from October
15th through December 7th annually,
counseling and guidance is provided
throughout the year. Counselors assist
people currently on Medicare, those
new to Medicare, and caregivers or who
are assisting their loved ones through
the process. The APPRISE Program
also offers volunteer opportunities.
Interested volunteers who successfully
go through the application and training
program become Counselors or assist
with education and outreach to the
community.
Through the APPRISE Program, help
is available for those with low income
through the Low Income Subsidy and
Medicare Savings Plan. Low income
Medicare recipients may be eligible
for Extra Help with costs associated
with their prescription drugs. These
programs help people with limited
income and resources to pay some
or all of their Medicare premiums
and may pay Medicare deductibles
and coinsurance. APPRISE program
Counselors help Medicare recipients
determine their eligibility and provide
assistance with enrollment. Counselors
will also help recipients to learn about
other potential community help
programs. To find out if you may be
eligible for the Medicare cost savings
programs, or to take advantage of any
other APPRISE Program service, please
call the GECAC APPRISE program at
814-459-4581 Ext. 494 or 519. Callers
are able to receive general information
to help answer their questions, or they
may request further follow-up for in-
person appointments.
Contributors:
Ron Crist, HUB International
John Johnston, Social Security Administration
Kim Malone, GECAC
The Niagara Network is a group of business professionals affiliated with the
human services industry. If you would like to join or find out more information
about the group and its members, visit the Niagara Network’s web site at
http://www.NiagaraNetwork.net.
MILLCREEK
❘
WINTER 2019
69