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Report says a second Trump term would add 4 billion tons of climate pollution; Trump predicts a bloodbath for the country if he is defeated in November's election; Nevada leaders discuss future of IVF, abortion in the Silver State; and anglers seek trawler buffer zone as Atlantic herring stock declines.

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The SCOTUS weighs government influence on social media, and who groups like the NRA can do business with. Biden signs an executive order to advance women's health research and the White House tells Israel it's responsible for the Gaza humanitarian crisis.

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Midwest regenerative farmers are rethinking chicken production, Medicare Advantage is squeezing the finances of rural hospitals and California's extreme swing from floods to drought has some thinking it's time to turn rural farm parcels into floodplains.

During Crisis, ND Seniors Urged to Carefully Consider Medicare Options

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Thursday, October 29, 2020   

BISMARCK, N.D. -- Older Americans are getting reminders about the Medicare enrollment period, which is now underway.

But unlike other years, their renewal comes during a pandemic and related economic crisis. Eligible North Dakotans are urged to carefully consider what works for their budget.

Doreen Riedman, associate state director for community outreach of AARP North Dakota said many people who receive Medicare coverage are already living on a fixed income.

She added it's been a tough year for a lot of people, and looking to see if you can find savings on prescription drugs is worth the time.

"If it's $20 a month that you could be saving, or $200 a month you could be saving, all of that counts," Riedman suggested.

She noted changes are made to Medicare health and drug plans every year. And allowing your current options to carry over without double-checking them comes with the risk of possibly paying too much the following year.

Open enrollment runs through Dec. 7. About 134,000 North Dakotans receive Medicare coverage.

Riedman also warned groups like hers are getting more reports this year of scammers trying to take advantage of people during the enrollment period.

"There's lots of calls, and texts and emails coming in and asking for your Medicare card number, or your personal information. Do not give that out," Riedman cautioned.

She added people also should be aware of scammers offering gifts when discussing enrollment, advising anyone to avoid those offers and hang up.

On its website, the state Insurance Department has information on scheduling free counseling appointments that cover how to change your enrollment easily and safely.

Because of the pandemic, all these sessions are being done by phone. The number to call is 701-328-2440.

Disclosure: AARP North Dakota contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues and Senior Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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