Most older adults rely on Medicare to access basic health care once they turn 65. Medicare has specific enrollment periods and corresponding financial penalties that are critical for advocates serving older adults to understand, as well as a dizzying array of private plans, which don’t always offer the services that are promised. Medicare also provides prescription drug coverage and low-income enrollees are entitled to financial assistance through the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) also known as “extra help.” Justice in Aging educates advocates on Medicare coverage and financial assistance and advocates at the federal level for policies that preserve beneficiary rights and choice, expand coverage to more equitably meet the needs of Medicare enrollees, provide greater financial assistance, and streamline enrollment processes.
