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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Utahns are encouraged to explore health care options during open enrollment

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Wednesday, October 23, 2024   

The annual Medicare open enrollment period is now underway and older Utahns are being encouraged to consider their choices.

Advisers said a good first step is to not only understand the options but also weigh health care and budget needs.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said a lot can change in a year, and it is crucial to ensure all providers and medications are still covered. Randall recommended planning ahead.

"Don't make this a last minute decision," Randall urged. "It's way too much information, and it's an important decision to think about the health insurance coverage that you're going to have for next year."

Almost 450,000 Utahns receive Medicare and one of the biggest changes people will see this year is a new $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drugs under Part D.

Randall added it is vital older Utahns understand the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, which can include benefits like dental, vision and hearing. There is more information at MedicareMadeClear.com.

Matt Slonaker, executive director of the Utah Health Policy Project, said they have helped tens of thousands of Utahns through the enrollment process for a number of years, including those shopping on the health insurance marketplace. For Utah, the open enrollment period runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15. Slonaker stressed they are there to help.

"We do the direct service, one by one, but we also want to look upstream to figure out why folks are even kind of showing up on our doorstep to need help," Slonaker explained. "Due to complications and unnecessary paperwork, things like that."

Slonaker added enhanced premium subsidies, which were extended due to the Inflation Reduction Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, have helped increase the amount of financial assistance available by making premiums more affordable.

Slonaker cautioned if they are left to expire by the end of 2025, marketplace enrollees will see premium payments increase substantially. State residents can visit TakeCareUtah.org to find free help with the insurance enrollment process.

Meanwhile, individuals with employer-sponsored health plans are also selecting coverage during open enrollment periods that typically run between September and December.




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