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Important Medicare Dates
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IMPORTANT DATES
October 1, 2005
You will begin receiving information on drug plans available in your community.
November 15, 2005
The enrollment period for Medicare Drug Benefit
(Part D) begins.
December 31, 2005
The last day to enroll to have coverage that begins on January 1, 2006.
January 1, 2006
Coverage begins for beneficiaries who enrolled by December 31, 2005.
May 15, 2006
Last day to enroll in a Medicare drug plan without incurring a 1% month premium surcharge and last day to enroll to receive any benefits in 2006.
November 15, 2006
The open enrollment period for Medicare Drug Benefit (Part D) begins for 2007. This is also the first opportunity for those who enrolled in a Medicare drug plan for 2006 to switch plans if they wish.
Important Medicare Information
MEDICARE PART D
Message from Congressman Engel:
Starting January 1, 2006, Medicare began to offer prescription drug coverage through new private drug plans and through Medicare managed care plans (now called "Medicare Advantage" plans). I opposed the law that created this program because the drug benefit is inadequate, overly complex and was set up to maximize profits for the pharmaceutical and HMO companies rather than maximizing help to Medicare beneficiaries.
Whether you are a senior, a person with a disability or someone trying to help a parent or friend, I encourage you to carefully research the available options BEFORE making a choice, I have enclosed some considerations that may be helpful in your decision. You have until May 15, 2006 to enroll for coverage this year without a penalty. Do not rush into any decisions. Take your time, understand your options, get independent advice, and make the decision that is right for you. After May 15th, you can't enroll again until November 15-December 30, 2006, the next open season.
Even though I disagree with the way the Bush Administration handled this issue and supported a simpler, more effective prescription drug plan offered by my Democratic colleagues in Congress, I want to stress to my constituents that they should sign up for this limited benefit before it is too late.
There are 7 million Medicare beneficiaries without drug coverage who still haven’t signed up, presenting a serious problem to seniors who may struggle to afford their prescription drugs. I encourage all of my constituents who qualify for the Medicare Prescription Drug benefit to sign up as soon as possible. Although this plan is rather complicated and far from perfect, there are some beneficial provisions which help low income seniors by waiving monthly premiums and providing reduced co-payments for medications.
I have provided a list of different agencies and websites that can help you in making this important choice. I will continue to post useful information on the website so please check back on a regular basis.
Read Congressman Engel's OP ED on Medicare Part D sign up.