Dr. Oz: Medicare open enrollment continues despite government shutdown
Dr. Oz says Medicare operations remain fully functional as open enrollment continues through December 7 and rural health investments expand across Georgia.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Dr. Mehmet Oz says despite the ongoing government shutdown, Medicare operations are continuing as normal.
“It has not affected the open enrollment process whatsoever,” Dr. Oz told 41NBC’s Tyrik Wynn. “The shutdown affects lots of parts of government, but Medicare is something that both Democrats and Republicans treasure. It’s a crown jewel of our social safety net program. The call center is open, so come on down.”
Medicare Open Enrollment runs through December 7, giving beneficiaries the chance to review and update their health and prescription drug plans for 2026. Dr. Oz encourages people to compare options early to find the best coverage and savings.
He also discussed how the program is addressing healthcare challenges in rural communities, including right here in Georgia.
“Medicare, the original fee-for-service program created 60 years ago, is in every part of the country,” Dr. Oz said. “We’re focused on rural America. The President has been pushing hard to improve quality and access. We’re training more nurses, and we’ve launched a $50 billion rural transformation fund. Governor Kemp has been actively engaged in making sure Georgia is applying for its money.”
Dr. Oz says those funds will support new initiatives aimed at improving rural healthcare access and quality of care across the state.
People with Medicare can compare plans or get free, unbiased help by visiting Medicare.gov or calling 1-800-MEDICARE.
