The VISHIP/Medicare program and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor continued to meet its mandate of community outreach when it recently hosted Medicare Beneficiary Forums throughout the territory.  The forums were held on November 16th  on St. Croix and on November 17th on St. Thomas.  The forums are an annual event held to beneficiaries with updates on the Medicare program.
 
The forums also provided a valuable opportunity for beneficiaries to learn more about preventive care and issues affecting  the Medicare eligible population.  Dr. Venné Williams, Director of Rehabilitative Services at the Juan F. Luis Hospital led a discussion on diabetes and hypertension management.  Attorney Amelia Headley Lamont , Executive Director of the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, gave a presentation on the rights of the disabled and the advocacy role of her agency.   Participants also  received information on the recently enacted healthcare reform legislation and open enrollment.
 
A highlight of the program was a segment presented by diet and fitness instructor, June St. Cyr.  Ms. St. Cyr  led the audience in exercises that can be done at home and by those with limited mobility.  Under the enthusiastic tutelage of St. Cyr, participants did a series of weight bearing and strengthening exercises.   She reminded the group to “make a conscious decision to exercise.”

Lieutenant Governor Gregory R. Francis spoke about the ongoing efforts to expand  Medicare benefits available to Virgin Islands residents and the importance of the forum as an opportunity to reach the Medicare eligible community.  “Our intent is to serve you, because you are our customers,” he said.