NEW DATE! Medicare Annual Election Period Begins October 15

The new, earlier Medicare Annual Election Period is quickly approaching (October 15 through December 7). Beneficiaries are encouraged to review their current health coverage, do a cost-benefit check, and be set to move quickly when the Election Period starts in order to assure a smooth transition into the 2012 benefit year. Help is available.

SHINE AND THE ST PETE BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY ARE OFFERING MEDICARE SEMINARS. SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders), a program of the Area Agency on Aging, Pasco - Pinellas, Inc., is partnering with the St Pete Beach Public Library to provide much-needed information in advance of the enrollment period. This free seminar program, presented by a specially trained SHINE volunteer, is hosted by the library at 365 73rd Avenue, St. Pete Beach (no reservation needed). The topics and times are as follows:

Mon, Oct 17, 10:30AM:  Prescription Drug Plans

Mon, Nov 21, 10:30AM:  Medicare Advantage Plans   

Mon, Dec 19, 10:30AM:  Medicare 101 

In addition to the free seminars listed above, one-on-one Medicare counseling is available by appointment. For further information, or to arrange an appointment, please call the Elder Helpline at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337) or visit www.FloridaSHINE.org.