AARP on Long Island Informs Local Residents During Free Medicare Workshop

More than 80 Suffolk County residents attended a free Medicare workshop at the Riverhead Free Library earlier this month. Riverhead AARP volunteers, in partnership with HIICAP, RSVP Suffolk, and EPIC, hosted this workshop for participants who were interested in learning how to navigate and make informed decisions about Medicare coverage.

"As many adults age, they may not be aware of the resources available to assist them in making decisions on their health care options,” said Jo Packard, Riverhead AARP Volunteer Team Co-Coordinator. “This workshop was an effort to help participants obtain a better understanding of the choices available to them.”

Participants learned Medicare basics, how to get the most out of the EPIC, NY State’s prescription drug coverage program, and tips on how to protect against Medicare fraud. Panelists helped address questions on eligibility, enrollment, coverage and options. Participants also were given the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a representative from each program at the end of workshop.

"Navigating all of the choices in Medicare can feel overwhelming, but in-person workshops like this one coordinated by our great AARP Riverhead volunteers can really help people understand the process and smooth the way for them to make informed decisions," said Bernard Macias, Associate State Director for AARP on Long Island.

More AARP resources and information about Medicare can be found at aarp.org/medicare.