To review the presentation click here: Medicare Open Enrollment – CWGC Presentation by Dianne Poonai
Central Westchester Geriatric Committee and members held one of its educational series at The Ambassador. CWGC is a group of professionals committed to improving the aging process and provides an educational forum quarterly for its members.
Spearheaded by our very own Jean Dunphy, this assembly also served as a heartfelt farewell to Geri Brooks, a dedicated member for 25 years, a former board member, and an employee at The Ambassador Scarsdale.
Our Distinguished Speaker
We were fortunate to have Dianne Poonai, the Program Administrator with the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services, which acts as the Area Agency on Aging for Westchester County. Ms. Poonai holds the position of HIICAP (Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Program) Coordinator. Additionally, she is affiliated with the NYConnects program, offering guidance and supervision in linking clients to long-term services and support. This includes areas like in-home care, Medicare/Medicaid, transportation, advocacy, and more, all aimed at empowering seniors and disabled individuals to maintain their independence.
A Glimpse into the Presentation
Medicare, overseen by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is a federal health insurance initiative. It primarily caters to those aged 65 and above, but also extends coverage to certain younger individuals with specific disabilities or conditions, such as End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS. Medicare encompasses three primary segments: Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), and Part D (Drug Coverage). To be eligible, factors like age, citizenship, and continuous U.S. residency are considered. Each segment has its own enrollment windows, premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. Being well-versed with these nuances is crucial for making informed Medicare coverage choices.
Medicare Open Enrollment – CWGC Presentation by Dianne Poonai


