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Common Questions About Medicare Part D
Who is eligible for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage?
Anyone with Medicare Part A or Medicare Part B is eligible to enroll regardless of age, income or health conditions.
Do I have to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan?
No. Enrolling in a plan is your choice. However, the longer you wait, the higher your penalty will be.
Why is there a penalty for not enrolling?
The penalty is simply a late enrollment fee. Congress believes that the Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are a great way for you to get help with the cost of prescription drugs. This penalty encourages people to enroll in the beginning of open enrollment, instead of waiting to join after health problems develop and drug costs rise.
What if I can’t afford coverage?
If you’re struggling with your prescription drug costs now or think you can’t afford a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, it’s very important to apply for help. You may get an application in the mail from the Social Security Administration (SSA). If so, complete this form and return it as soon as possible. If you don’t receive this form, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. TTY/TDD users should call 1-800-325-0778. You can also visit www.socialsecurity.gov on the web. SSA’s application process provides you with the quickest decision. You can also go to your State Medical Assistance office to apply.
How do I know if I’m eligible to receive financial help?
If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, you already qualify for low-income assistance. If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, you may still qualify for some assistance if your resources are $11,500 for an individual, or $23,000 for a couple. In some cases, the government will also review your resources.
What resources will be reviewed to decide if I am eligible for help?
Any cash or property that can be converted to cash within 20 days. This includes checking accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit, retirement accounts (like IRAs or 401Ks), stocks, bonds, mutual fund shares, promissory notes, mortgages, and life insurance policies. Property that is not counted includes your primary home, burial plots, or burial agreements. Certain funds set aside for burial expenses, up to $1,500, will also not be counted.
How will I know if my current prescriptions will be covered?
Each Medicare Prescription Drug Plan will provide its own formulary, or list of covered drugs. This information will be available through the plan's website, customer service center, and marketing materials.
What if I don’t currently take any prescription drugs?
Even if you don’t need any prescription drugs now, you should still consider joining a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Most people need prescriptions as they age in order to stay healthy. And joining as soon as possible will ensure that you won’t have to pay a penalty later on.
Where can I go for more information?
In October 2007, you will receive the 2008 Medicare & You handbook, which will include all of the plans available in your area. Also in October, 2007, the individual Medicare-approved plans will begin releasing specific plan information, including plan costs, the list of covered drugs, and the list of network pharmacies. Information will also be available at www.Medicare.gov, the Medicare Web site. Also, you may request FREE information from National Health Plans by clicking here.
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