All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Confused by Medicare changes? Local agent Jeff Barnhart hosting Oct. 8 info sessions in Buckhannon

Medicare can be very confusing, with new rules and regulations that change from year to year. But local independent insurance agent Jeff Barnhart is here to simplify the process and help seniors explore options available through The Health Plan, a West Virginia-based insurance carrier.

“It can be overwhelming, and we’re here to make it simple,” Barnhart said.

Barnhart, owner of Barnhart Financial Services, specializes in helping his clients find the plan that best fits their needs. He will be available to meet with area residents on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, during seminars at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Daily Grind Outpost & Event Center, 20 Raella Lane in Buckhannon.

“There’s a lot of confusion when it comes to Medicare,” Barnhart said. “Meeting face-to-face versus calling an 800 number gives people quality recommendations. I’m local. Local representation adds value to what we’re doing.”

The October 8 seminars will feature new Medicare Advantage plan options from The Health Plan, a West Virginia-based insurance carrier. Barnhart will explain more about the coverage you can obtain from the SecureCare HMO and SecureChoice PPO Medicare Advantage plans at the free informational meeting.

For reservations to the October 8 event at the Daily Grind, please call Jeff at Barnhart Financial Services, 304-365-2362 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you cannot attend the event but would like plan information, you can also call that number to reach Jeff.

“The best thing to do is call me for an appointment,” Barnhart said. “This is a short seven weeks of the enrollment period, and it comes fast, so we want people to be ready.”

The Medicare Open Enrollment period for coverage in 2026 begins on October 15 and will close on December 7, 2025.

The Health Plan supports the health and well-being of adults 65 and older, with several comprehensive plans to choose from, so you can select the one that best meets your specific health needs.

“Every senior needs to know about this,” Barnhart said. “It’s critical they take time to review their plan. This is their one-time chance to enroll in plans for 2026.”

Due to legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. That’s why seeing an agent like Barnhart, who specializes in Medicare, is your best bet.

“It’s not simple math,” he said. “You really should take into consideration coming in to meet with an agent who does Medicare.”

Barnhart is a client-focused, independent agent who simplifies complicated matters so his clients can choose the plan that best suits their needs.

“Now is the time to evaluate what you have,” he said. “For someone who is currently on Medicare, it’s time to make that change or to explore what is out there for them.

Call Jeff at 304-365-2362. You can also email him at jbarnhartinsure@aol.com, or follow Barnhart Financial Services on Facebook to learn more about Medicare health plans and Jeff’s availability during this year’s enrollment period.

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