MEDICARE NEWS AND NOTES |
|
|
(NAPSI)-Identifying the lowest-cost prescription coverage plan to meet their needs can be a challenge for many people who qualify for Medicare prescription drug coverage or Part D. With higher monthly premiums for prescription drug plans in 2009, now is a good time for people with Medicare to review their options to prepare for the open enrollment period. This year, open enrollment, which is the time when you can change plans if you want to, runs from November 15 through December 31. "If you or someone you love has Medicare prescription drug coverage, review your options every year," said Wendy Zenker, vice president of the National Council on Aging's (NCOA) Benefits Access Group. To maximize savings, you should consider three factors: cost, coverage and convenience. What's The Cost? It's important to evaluate how much in total you pay each month--the premiums as well as other costs, including the amounts you need to pay before Medicare pays (deductibles) and the amount you may have to share (co-payments). What Is Covered? In addition to cost considerations, you should make sure that your prescriptions are covered by the plan you are considering. Each plan has its own list of drugs that it covers. These lists can change each year. In addition, plans may have special rules about when it will cover certain drugs. So it is very important for people with Medicare to re-evaluate the plan they're in and compare it to other plans in their area every year to determine which plan will best suit their needs for the coming year. Is It Convenient? Lastly, you should determine how convenient it will be to get the prescription drugs you need. Does the plan you're in work with your doctor and the pharmacy of your choice? "Choosing a Medicare Part D plan can be overwhelming, and we're here to help," said CVS Pharmacist Jeremy Shaw. To help, CVS pharmacists have been specially trained to assist seniors in finding the plan that best suits their needs. The Medicare Part D Calculator offers easy access to your own Part D plan comparison at www.cvs.com/medicare. This tool provides a clear picture of which of your medications will be covered by different Medicare Part D plans available in a region. It also compares total annual costs associated with each plan. To maximize prescription drug savings, you should consider three factors: cost, coverage and convenience. |
Word Count: 401 |
Share this article: 
