Compare, be aware of changes and consumer beware is the best advice for those on Medicare as they try and navigate Medicare’s “enrollment season” for Medicare, Medicare Part D drug coverage and Medicare Advantage plans.
Twenty-nine Medicare Advantage plans are terminating coverage, two insurance companies selling Medicare Advantage plans have been suspended from selling any more plans and 16 Part D drug plans are also terminating coverage effective Dec. 31, according to Steve Farnham, longtime executive director of Aroostook Agency on Aging. “People enrolled in plans that are ending must re-enroll to another plan if they want prescription drug and medical coverage in 2011,” he said.
Most Medicare beneficiaries are restricted to changing their health or drug coverage only Nov. 15 through Dec. 31. “During this time you can change to another Medicare Advantage plan or back to Original Medicare as well as add, drop or change your Part D drug coverage,” said Farnham. “Now is a good time to review current coverage and other options, especially in drug coverage. Even if you are happy with your current coverage, it is a good idea to compare policies, evaluate changes made in plans and determine if your plan will continue to cover your health needs, at a cost you can afford,” he added.
Persons with access to the Internet can get accurate and objective information in making a drug plan decision by using the Drug Plan Finder at www.medicare.gov. They also can call Medicare and get help finding a plan that meets their needs by calling 1-800-633-4227, according to Farnham.
“One of the best ways to evaluate Medicare options is to discuss them with a Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselor,” Farnam said. The Aroostook Agency on Aging with offices in Presque Isle has SHIP staff and volunteer counselors on helping people daily. The agency is conducting Medicare drug plan clinics in several Aroostook County towns in the coming weeks. Please call the agency to schedule a free one-on-one counseling session at 764-3396, toll free 1-800-439-1789.
