Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach Esq. advises all persons eligible for Medicare that the General Enrollment Period (GEP) takes place from Jan. 1 through March 31. Medicare coverage will begin on the first of the month following sign-up. This enrollment period is for individuals who missed their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) and are not eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
The Initial Enrollment Period is a seven-month period that includes the three months before, the month of, and the three months following a person’s 65th birthday month. Individuals who missed their IEP may be eligible for a special enrollment period if they meet qualifications such as relocating from their service plan area, losing employer coverage, or no longer being eligible for Medicaid.
Individuals who are eligible for Medicare and need additional information on a Medicare enrollment period may contact the Virgin Islands State Health Insurance Assistance Program (VI SHIP) Medicare office in the St. Thomas/St. John District at 774-2991, extensions 4505, 4507, or 4508 or in the St. Croix District at 773-6449, extensions 3151 or 3152. Information can also be obtained by visiting www.medicare.gov.
To enroll in Medicare during the General Enrollment Period, please contact the Social Security Administration by calling 866-876-1799, visiting the local Social Security branch, or by going online at www.ssa.gov.
