Medicare Enrollment Info Session
Medicare Open Enrollment Info Session (Originally Presented 12/1/25). Edited for content with Closed Captions.
Speakers: Tracee Garner, Patrick Hamilton, Angela Cain
Patrick Hamilton, a Special Assistant and Outreach Specialist in the Philadelphia office of CMS, discussed Medicare Open Enrollment, which runs from October 15th to December 7th. He explained the two main ways to get Medicare coverage: Original Medicare, which includes Parts A and B, and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C), which bundle services from Parts A, B, and D. Patrick emphasized that during this enrollment period, beneficiaries can add, drop, or change their Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. He noted that while Original Medicare allows visits to any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans often require using in-network providers. Patrick also mentioned that some Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits like routine dental, vision, and hearing services, which Original Medicare does not cover.
Angela Cain, a Health Insurance Specialist, presented information about Medicare benefits, including premium details, copayments, and qualifications for the Extra Help program. She discussed changes coming in 2026, such as new brand-name drugs up for negotiation, an increased out-of-pocket drug cost limit of $2,100, expanded colorectal cancer screening, and the introduction of Advanced Primary Care Management Services. Angela also highlighted the continued coverage of telehealth services by Medicare through January 30th, noting its importance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.