From the Senior Resource Alliance
In Summary:
Medicare beneficiaries reviewing their 2027 coverage can receive free, confidential guidance through Senior Resource Alliance’s SHINE program. Trained counselors help beneficiaries, families, and caregivers compare plans, understand coverage and costs, identify potential financial assistance, and address Medicare concerns. Apopka residents can call 1-800-96-ELDER or visit Senior Resource Alliance’s website to learn how to schedule a session, with counseling available during open enrollment and year-round.
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With Medicare Open Enrollment now underway, Senior Resource Alliance is encouraging Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers with questions about their 2027 coverage to take advantage of the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) Program’s free and unbiased Medicare counseling services. Beneficiaries are not required to change plans during Open Enrollment, but SHINE recommends reviewing current coverage, noting changes in health or prescription drug needs, and comparing 2027 options before making a decision.
SHINE's specially trained counselors offer confidential, impartial guidance to help beneficiaries evaluate their coverage options and choose what best aligns with their needs.
“Our team is hearing from people who have questions about their Medicare coverage and the changes they may see in 2027,” said Karla Radka, Senior Resource Alliance President and CEO. “Our trained SHINE counselors are available to help Central Florida’s Medicare beneficiaries better understand their choices and select the coverage that best meets their individual circumstances.”
While the Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, SHINE provides free Medicare counseling year-round. Trained counselors can help Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers:
- Understand Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D prescription drug coverage;
- Compare available Medicare health and drug plans;
- Learn about Medicare costs, coverage and notices;
- Identify potential programs that may help eligible beneficiaries with Medicare costs;
- Understand Medicare rights, appeals and other coverage concerns; and
- Detect and report suspected Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.
About Senior Resource Alliance
Senior Resource Alliance (SRA) is your local resource for accessing the many services and programs of the state and federal government, available to senior citizens, their caregivers, and family members. SRA is also an objective clearinghouse for information and services offered by local, state, and national organizations. We have been serving our community since 1985. https://seniorresourcealliance.org/
Key Points
- Enrollment window: Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7, providing an opportunity to review coverage options for 2027.
- Free, unbiased guidance: SHINE counselors offer confidential assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers.
- No required plan change: Beneficiaries do not have to switch plans, but SHINE recommends reviewing coverage and considering changes in health or prescription needs.
- Help beyond plan comparisons: Counselors can explain costs, identify potential assistance programs, address rights and appeals, and help detect suspected Medicare fraud.
- Access for Apopka residents: Senior Resource Alliance administers SHINE in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Brevard counties. Call 1-800-96-ELDER or visit Senior Resource Alliance’s Medicare counseling page for scheduling information.
