Medicare Part D - Wayne-Wilson News Leader, Fremont, NC

25 October 2007 — Once again, it’s time for North Carolina’s 1.5 Medicare beneficiaries to make a decision about their prescription drug coverage. The Medicare Part D — the federal program’s prescription drug benefit — open enrollment begins on Nov. 15 and runs through Dec. 31. During this enrollment period, people with Medicare can sign up for a prescription drug plan (PDP) or switch their current Medicare Part D plan.

SHIIP, the Department of Insurance’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program, is available to help seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries with the enrollment process or answer any questions about the program. Trained SHIIP counselors are available to meet with you face-to-face in all 100 counties, and our toll free SHIIP hotline has trained communication specialists that can answer your questions Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
SHIIP created the following frequently asked questions to guide you through the Part D enrollment process. If you have additional questions, call SHIIP at 1-800-443-9354 or visit www.ncshiip.com.

What is a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP)?

Medicare PDPs are insurance plans approved by Medicare and sold by private insurance companies that offer prescription drug coverage to people with Medicare. All people on Medicare are eligible to enroll into a Medicare PDP regardless of their income or assets. Medicare PDPs work like any other insurance products — they have premiums, co-payments, deductibles and formularies (list of approved drugs that the plan will cover).

What if I cannot afford a Medicare PDP?

There is federal assistance available for people with Medicare who have limited income and resources. If you qualify, you can receive assistance with premiums, deductibles and prescription co-payments. To the Low Income Subsidy (LIS) program call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, visit www.socialsecurity.gov or by contact SHIIP for help, 1-800-443-9354.

North Carolina residents may also apply for assistance through the Governor’s NCRx program by calling 1-888-488-6279 or visiting www.ncrx.gov.

Should I change my current PDP?

Many Medicare PDPs change their formularies and prices every year, so it is possible that the PDP you chose last year won’t work as well for you this year. Just like with any insurance product, it’s important to make sure that your coverage continues to meet your needs year after year. By comparing plans, you can see if another Medicare PDP would save you money and/or cover more of your prescriptions. Start your comparisons now so that there is plenty of time to shop around before making your decision. If you do sign up for Part D or change your current plan during the open enrollment, Nov. 15 – Dec. 31, your new plan will take effect on Jan. 1, 2008.

What other options are available for Medicare prescription drug coverage?

Some Medicare Advantage plans contain prescription drug coverage. If you have questions about Medicare Advantage plans, contact SHIIP for assistance.

Back to this week's News Leader

Issue of 25 October 2007

Headlines

Briefs

Tale of transformation leads to giving

Fremont's mayoral candidates focus on growth, crime

wayne co. sheriff's report

Northern Lights ECA meeting

Red Ribbon events at local schools

Drought delays sewer fix benefits

Medicare Part D coverage

Heating assistance for Wilson residents

Football: CBA falls to Hunt

Soccer: CBA still perfect

Pigskin results

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