ELLINWOOD — With Medicare Open Enrollment now underway (October 15 – December 7), Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic (EHC) is helping local residents make informed choices about their coverage with a free community education panel on Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the EHC Education Room.

The session, titled “Making Sense of Medicare,” will focus on the differences between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, helping attendees understand which option best fits their individual health needs.

Speakers will include Nancy Baird of Doll Insurance and Jennie Nixon, Medicare Billing Specialist with Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic. Together, they’ll discuss the drawbacks of Medicare Advantage plans, including pre-authorization requirements and coverage limitations that can complicate care in rural Kansas settings.

The panel will also provide tips for reviewing prescription coverage, verifying provider networks, and ensuring continued access to local care in 2026.

The event is free and open to the public, with no registration required. Light refreshments will be provided.

For more information, call Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic at 620-564-2548 or visit www.ellinwoodhospital.org.