The Medicare Rights Center answers 20,000 questions from people with Medicare and their families each year through its National Consumer Helpline, and the organization’s expertise reaches even further in New York State through professional trainings and partnerships. Working with the Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Program (HIICAP) and assisting hundreds of community-based organizations in New York City, Medicare Rights helps more people with Medicare, especially in underserved and low-income communities.

Every day on the National Consumer Helpline, Medicare Rights hears from older adults and people with disabilities who are struggling

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Cathy McElroy, our dedicated colleague and friend who worked tirelessly to further the Medicare Rights Center’s mission.
As Vice President of Operations for two decades, Cathy’s talents, compassion, and grace have been critical to our organization’s success. She touched the lives of those in the Medicare Rights community and many beyond it and will be forever missed.

Rachel Kreier, a professor of health economics at St. Joseph’s College, has been engaged with the Medicare Rights Center both as a volunteer and as a donor. Kreier has used Medicare Rights’ materials in her teaching and, conversely, brought her knowledge of health care to the helpline.

There are changes to Medicare costs and coverage options every year, and it’s difficult for consumers and professionals alike to keep up with what’s new and how it will affect them or their clients. As the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services rolls out these changes, the Medicare Rights Center’s education team gets to work right away translating complex legal language into consumer-friendly resources.

This year is a significant milestone for the Medicare Rights Center as we celebrate our 30th anniversary!

Thanks to our dedicated supporters, we have worked to ensure access to affordable health care for older adults and people with disabilities for three decades—and we will continue this critical work into our 30th year and as long as our services are needed.

People with Medicare who need help accessing mental health care and addiction services can look to the Community Health Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Project (CHAMP) as a new source of support. The Medicare Rights Center is participating in CHAMP, a new ombudsman program launched to help New Yorkers access insurance coverage for behavioral health services and understand their rights and options.

The staff and volunteer counselors on the Medicare Rights Center’s National Consumer Helpline answer Medicare questions from consumers, caregivers, and professionals every day. Yet there are times when a counselor will come across a complex situation where a client needs more assistance than a helpline call can provide. That’s when Medicare Rights’ lawyers step in with their expert knowledge of Medicare rules and regulations.