Penn State Extension has launched a free webinar series designed to help participants navigate health insurance decisions, manage healthcare costs, and understand policy options. Titled “Smart Choice, Smart Use Health Insurance,” the educational program offers practical guidance tailored for individuals, older adults, farmers, and small business owners.
Webinar Series Structure and Core Topics
The series covers six distinct areas:
- Basics: Focuses on fundamentals of health insurance, helping participants select plans that align with personal medical needs and household budgets through informed decision-making strategies.
- Mental Health: Explores the importance of seeking behavioral healthcare and outlines practical methods for using insurance coverage to access treatment while managing out-of-pocket costs.
- Costs and Conflicts: Teaches techniques for controlling healthcare expenses and explains the formal appeal and dispute resolution processes required when challenging insurance company decisions.
- Maximizing Your Benefits: Provides tips on utilizing available policy benefits, staying informed on coverage changes, and taking an active role in personal healthcare choices.
- Your Senior Years: Examines Medicare options and critical health considerations for older adults planning their long-term coverage.
- Farmers and Small Businesses: Offers specialized guidance for agricultural producers and small business owners on evaluating available market options and selecting cost-effective group or individual plans.
Registration Details and Access
Penn State Extension provides these educational sessions at no charge, though advance registration is required to secure access links. Because event timelines vary by specific session, participants must check the official Penn State Extension website for individual registration deadlines.
Organizers distribute recorded versions of each webinar via email to registered attendees within 10 business days following the live broadcast. These recordings remain accessible online for six months from the original event date, allowing participants to review the material at their convenience.
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