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 Shrub Oak, NY - With premiums for most major Medicare drug plans rising sharply in 2009, many people with Medicare have additional reasons to consider alternative coverage during the 2009 enrollment period.
The Westchester Library System (WLS), in partnership with the Medicare Rights Center, recently hosted the first program in a two-part series, “Getting the Most for Your Medicare Money,” at the John C. Hart Memorial Library in Shrub Oak.
The free programs are designed to help older adults and their caregivers understand their Medicare options so they can get the most for their healthcare dollars. Medicare’s annual open enrollment period, from November 15 to December 31, is the only time during the year that people with Medicare can change prescription drug coverage. November 15 to March 31 is the only time they can change health plan coverage without restriction.
The next program, which covers prescription drug plan options, will take place on December 12 from 11:30am – 12:30pm at the John C. Hart Memorial Library. It will also be offered at the Grinton Will Library, 1500 Central Avenue, Yonkers, on December 3 from 1:30–2:30 pm. A program covering health plan options will be held at the Grinton Will Library on December 10 from 1:30-2:30 pm.
Free individual counseling is available at the Health Advocacy Resource Center in the John C. Hart Library, 1130 Main Street, Shrub Oak, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 pm. For additional information, please call (914) 245-5262 x227.
About the Health Advocacy Resource Center (HARC)
The Health Advocacy Resource Center, the first library-based collaborative center of its kind in the country, was established to help older adults and their caregivers to navigate through the confusing maze of health care information. Visitors to the Center have access to the vast array of Westchester Library System print and on-line health care resources, with guidance from trained volunteer counselors. HARC is located at the Will Library in Yonkers and the John C. Hart Memorial Library in Shrub Oak.
About the Westchester Library System
The Westchester Library System (WLS) includes 38 member public libraries located throughout the County and is one of New York State’s 23 public library systems. WLS and its member libraries have a total collection of 5.6 million items, including 4 million books, as well as audio recordings, videocassettes, DVDs, print serials, and other materials. Support from WLS helps expand and enhance the services and resources of local member libraries, enabling them to better serve the public. WLS also ensures that all county residents have excellent library service on-site and on-line. A sponsor of year-round events, WLS helps coordinate featured author events, the annual Book and Author Luncheon, and seasonal reading initiatives. The WLS Adult and Outreach Services Department offers improved access to library services for all residents, training and development of library personnel, services to disadvantaged youth, and the fee-based WEBS Career and Educational Counseling service. WLS celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2008.
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