With Medicare open enrollment kicking off on Oct. 15, preparation is key to making confident, informed healthcare decisions.

Medicare costs, benefits, provider or pharmacy networks and drug formularies can change year-to-year. Comparing your options annually could help you find better coverage or even cost savings. Beneficiaries have through Dec. 7 to assess and make changes.

Upcoming Medicare classes include:

• 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 - New to Medicare at the Central Resource Library, 9875 West 87th St., Overland Park.
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 - New to Medicare at the Indian Creek Library, 16100 West 135th St., Olathe.
• 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30 - Medicare: Open Enrollment Review (for those now on Medicare) at the Central Resource Library.

The Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas program, also known as SHICK, is driven by dedicated volunteers who understand the importance of choosing options to meet your individual needs.

Volunteers undergo thorough screenings and complete comprehensive training to provide this service to our community.

Volunteers cannot have any affiliation with an insurance company or broker. This ensures clients receive unbiased, trustworthy assistance when making these important decisions.

Whether through one-on-one counseling, providing Medicare presentations or taking part in community events, SHICK supports Johnson County residents.

For more information about SHICK services or to find out how to join its team of incredible volunteers, call 913-715-8856 or email AHS-SHICK@jocogov.org.