News 6 hosts Medicare phone bank ahead of deadline

Consumers urged to ask questions, stay informed

LONGWOOD, Fla. – Doctors are encouraging anyone signing up for Medicare plans to ask questions now, ahead of the deadline.

"Do your homework," Elena Flores said while sitting in the waiting room of the WellMed Medical Group. 

Flores said research and a representative from UnitedHealthcare connected her with her primary care physician over the phone.

"I gave a call and the next thing I know, I had an appointment,” Flores said. 

Dr. Carol Francisco, with WellMed Medical Group, said she hears both from patients and family members of aging seniors. 

"We encourage family members to participate, that's something that I think is really helpful to seniors -- when they have other family members involved, asking pertinent questions," Francisco said.  

Francisco said depending on the medical diagnosis, some patients may want to select a plan that will allow them to stay consistent.

Selecting the right plan initially helps patients avoid obstacles through the year. 

"Because sometimes, with some of these plans, there's an initial signup period and then you're locked in until the following year," Francisco said. 

News 6 will partner with representatives from WellMed Medical Group and UnitedHealthcare for a phone bank Wednesday, Nov. 27,  from noon to 7:30 p.m. The number to call is 888-436-6665. 

The deadline to sign up for a Medicare plan is Dec. 7.


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