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November 14, 2008

State Senator Jane Orie wants to remind those covered by a Medicare prescription drug program that the annual open enrollment period is from November 15th to December 31, 2008.  Because plans change in what they cost and what they cover, now is the time for those covered by Medicare to review the changes being made by their current plan and compare it to others to make sure it still meets their needs.

When choosing a Medicare prescription plan for the first time or switching to a different plan, the PA Department of Aging suggests performing a plan comparison to help select the option that best meets your specific medications and other needs. The Department recommends considering the "three C's" when choosing among the Part D plans:

• Coverage: Check to see if your medications are covered on the plan's formulary;
• Cost: Compare your current prescription costs to the costs of other Medicare drug plans (premiums, deductibles, co-payments);
• Convenience: See if your current pharmacy works with the plan and whether they offer a mail order option. Some plans may require Step Therapy, which means that they may require you to first try a certain drug to treat a medical condition before they will cover a different drug for that same condition.

Seniors who are satisfied with their current plan do not need to do anything to remain in that plan in 2009. However, to compare plans or to enroll in another plan, go to http://www.medicare.gov  or call 1-800-MEDICARE.  At the Web site, users can find detailed information about the 2009 plans in the Medicare and You handbook, can use the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder to help them compare prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans that serve their area.  Those without internet access can get the same information and free personalized counseling at 1-800-MEDICARE.