MDHS announces open enrollment assistance for eligible families through SHIP

The Mississippi Department of Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), announces the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) will provide assistance for eligible Mississippians during the Medicare Open Enrollment period that runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, 2026.

During this enrollment period, Medicare recipients have an opportunity to review and adjust their health and prescription elections, compare available plans and make changes that better suit their healthcare needs and financial profile. Changes made during open enrollment will take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

SHIP is a free state program, provided by MDHS, that provides local, in-depth and unbiased insurance counseling and assistance to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families or caregivers to help them better understand their coverage options.

For many older adults in Mississippi, navigating healthcare can be overwhelming. SHIP counselors are here to assist individuals understand changes in prescription drug costs, provider networks and plan benefits, as well as how these changes can affect access to care and household expenses.

"Like most health insurance plans, Medicare is not a one-size-fit-all. What may have worked last year, may not be suitable this year," said KenYada Blake-Washington, MDHS Division Director of Aging and Adult Services. "Our SHIP counselors are here to help clients, at no cost, navigate those changes and ensure that older Mississippians have access to the information and resources they need to make an informed decision about their healthcare."

SHIP counselors can help Medicare-eligible individuals:

* Understand Medicare benefits and eligibility

* Organize doctor and hospital bills

* File Medicare appeals

* Review Medicare Supplemental Insurance

* Evaluate Medicare+ Choice or Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) options

* Explore long-term care options

MDHS encourages all Medicare-eligible individuals to review their coverage annually, even if they are satisfied with their plan. Plan offerings and health care needs can change from year to year.

Those who do not wish to make any updates to their current coverage do not need to take action, however, reviewing plan details prior to the Dec. 7 deadline can help prevent unexpected costs or coverages in the upcoming year.

Medicare Open Enrollment ends Dec. 7, 2026. Medicare-eligible individuals in need of assistance are encouraged to contact a SHIP counselor before the deadline to allow time to review their options.

For more information about Medicare Open Enrollment or to connect with a SHIP counselor, call 1-844-822-4622 or visit https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/finding-services-for-older-adults/.

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