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Extension director outlines programs, says Medicare counseling saved $7.3 million statewide
Summary
Jay Harris, district director for the Cottonwood Extension District at Kansas State University, briefed the commission on Cooperative Extension programs across Ellis and Barton counties and reported SHICK Medicare counseling metrics and local program activity.
Jay Harris, district director with the Cottonwood Extension District (Kansas State University), presented an overview of Cooperative Extension work in Ellis and Barton counties, including agricultural assistance, 4‑H youth programs, community health initiatives and senior benefits counseling.
Harris said SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling in Kansas) performed 6,815 comparisons statewide in 2024, with 4,351 people changing plans and an estimated statewide savings of about $7.3 million (an average of roughly $1,674 per person). Locally, Harris said the Cottonwood District handled 91 appointments in Ellis County and saved more than $200,000 in 2025, citing an anecdote of a local beneficiary who saved over $10,000 on drug costs. He also described community programs — a hypertension‑awareness program that provides free blood‑pressure monitors, a babysitting clinic, 4‑H activities and a new community health‑worker role to support transitions from hospital to follow‑up care.
Commissioners thanked Harris and asked staff to continue public outreach; Harris encouraged the public to use K‑State Extension resources and to attend Extension events.
