Medicare Open Enrollment Starts Today - Explore Your Options with our Certified Benefits Counselors

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • October 15, 2024

Assistance is available to find and compare 2025 health and drug plans now
 

East Texas, October 15, 2024: Medicare Open Enrollment runs from now until December 7, and people with Medicare will have more coverage options to consider. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so our Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is offering benefits counseling assistance to encourage Medicare recipients to review their coverage choices and decide on the options that best fit their health needs.

 

 The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include:

  • Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
  • Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
  • Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

 

"Today marks the first day of Medicare Open Enrollment! It's the perfect time to review your Medicare coverage and make any necessary changes. Did you know that we serve as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and can provide free, unbiased help to Medicare beneficiaries? Whether you need assistance understanding your coverage options, comparing plans, or enrolling in a new plan, we can provide personalized assistance, " said AAA's Lead Benefits Counselor, Juanita Beason.

 

For assistance, please call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845 to speak to a qualified benefits counselor. Appointments can be made over the phone, in a virtual meeting, or in person.

 

Local Open Enrollment presentations:

Benefits counselors will also be available for appointments at these community events during Open Enrollment. To reserve your spot, call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845.


  • Thursday, November 7   9 AM to 3 PM – George Washington Carver Community Center, 2302 Holland St, Marshall, TX 75670
  • Wednesday, November 13   9 AM to 2:30 PM – Panola Senior Complex, 101 Senior Ave. Carthage, TX 75633
  • Tuesday, November 19   9 AM to 3 PM – Palestine Resource Center, 421 Avenue A. Palestine TX 75801
  • Thursday, November 21   9 AM to 3 PM – Habitat for Humanity of Camp County, 447 Mt. Pleasant St. Pittsburg, TX 75686


Medicare plans can be viewed and compared at www.medicare.gov

Visit https://www.easttexasaaa.org/open-enrollment to request an appointment

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ETCOG Welcomes Adrian Cornejo as New Director of Aging Programs

By East Teas Council of Governments • September 2, 2025
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adrian Cornejo as the new Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA). In this role, Cornejo will lead efforts to develop and coordinate services that support the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults across ETCOG’s fourteen-county region. Cornejo brings a strong background in healthcare leadership and military service. He most recently worked as an Account Manager for Humana’s Institutional Special Needs Plan program, where he partnered with skilled nursing facilities to improve care coordination, leading to a 20% reduction in hospital readmissions. Earlier in his career, Cornejo served in the United States Navy for nearly two decades, rising to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer and managing budgets exceeding $550 million while leading more than 350 Sailors and Marines. “Adrian’s leadership experience in both healthcare and the military has equipped him with the skills and dedication needed to serve East Texas seniors,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “His background in building partnerships and his deep commitment to public service make him a tremendous asset to our team.” Cornejo shared his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “It is an honor to join ETCOG and to serve the seniors of East Texas. My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place at the Area Agency on Aging and continue to expand access to services that help older adults and their families live with dignity and independence.” The AAA is administered through ETCOG and is part of a nationwide network created through the Older Americans Act of 1965. It provides a wide range of services, including information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education, senior nutrition programs, housing repair, caregiver support, and Ombudsman advocacy for individuals in long-term care facilities. These programs are designed to help older residents remain active and independent in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Get Medicare Help You Can Trust – One-on-One or in a Group

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • August 6, 2025
Medicare Open Enrollment is right around the corner, and with so many plans and choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our certified benefits counselors are here to help—whether you prefer to sit down one-on-one or schedule an educational session for your group or organization. They provide clear, unbiased information about Medicare so you can make informed decisions that fit your needs. These services are free and available to individuals, families, churches, senior centers, civic clubs, and other local groups. If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare coverage, upcoming changes, or available plans, now is the time to reach out. To schedule an appointment or request a group presentation, contact us at 1-800-442-8845 or www.easttexasaaa.org/request-speaker .
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