Every year between October 15 and December 7, Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare coverage. This “open enrollment” period provides an important opportunity for individuals over the age of 65 to review their Medicare coverage to determine if a different plan may better meet their needs. If a beneficiary decides that they do not want to make any changes, then no action is required. It may be helpful to think of open enrollment as an annual ‘check-up’ for Medicare coverage and benefits.

On November 10, 2020, the United States Supreme Court will hear arguments in a legal challenge that seeks to strike down the Affordable Care Act (ACA). While the ACA remains the law of the land for now, it is important for all people, including cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones, to understand the potential implications and what this case means for them. If the Supreme Court finds that the entire ACA is unconstitutional, it could have serious effects on access to care, removing many essential patient protections that cancer patients and survivors depend on. The Cancer Support Community is ready to continue our work to assist people impacted by cancer no matter what happens to the ACA.

Each month, the Cancer Policy Institute profiles advocates who have been engaged in health advocacy. Read on to learn more about Mackenzie and her passion for closing the gap in health disparities. If you are interested in learning more about policy, advocacy, and ways to get involved, sign up to be a part of the Grassroots Network!